Humans have a way of improving their standards of living through technological advancements and scientific discoveries. For instance, the industrial revolution has paved the way to different inventions that enhanced the lives of many.
However, it came with a price. As technology progressed, the demand for energy increased. Traditional ways to produce energy was not only depleting its sources, but the natural resources of the earth as well. Pollution became a major problem in the whole process of retrieving and distributing energy.
Human health, quality of life and climate change among others are some of the things that face the danger brought by the effects of unsustainable energy production and consumption. Although it powers homes and buildings, its negative effects have proven to be heavier in the long run. Unsustainable energy sources are fleeting and at the rate of people’s energy consumption, it could run out in the near future.
The Solution
The leaders in technological and scientific developments have taken notice of this issue. Efforts in creating a more environment friendly and self-replenishing energy source have been executed by different sectors in the world. They also aim to make sure that these sources can meet the exponentially increasing demand in energy. This is now collectively known as sustainable energy.
Sustainable energy is the new frontier in energy sourcing. It does not harm the environment, provides for society’s need for energy without the risks of depleting or running out of supply. All renewable energy, such as solar and wind, are sustainable because they are abundant and stable.
The Effects
The promise of sustainable energy can address different issues. Poverty reduction, economic growth, disaster risk reduction and environmental sustainability are some of the expected long term effects of sustainable energy.
The installations for the plants, however, might be a hurdle for some as the prices are steep. Its production and distribution process, however, is much cheaper compared to the traditional energy source. Since the cost is low, the price on its products, which is electricity, will also reduce. With reduced prices for electricity, it will become more affordable especially to people from the lower sector of the society.
It can reach the secluded areas and provide social progress for small communities. Now they can light their homes, have access to computers and cellphones and all the other benefits bought along with the emergence of electricity.
Since sustainable energy is becoming more prominent in terms of energy sourcing, investors in different countries are pooling in on this industry. This gives leeway to current companies to expand and more companies to start up with this business in nature.
Most importantly, it is the key to environmental sustainability, which is critical to a country’s growth, especially to a country like the Philippines that is rich in natural resources and relies heavily on agriculture.
Sustainable energy has a lot to offer and developers are yet to find its full potential. So far, the manifested effects have been proven to be positive. The foreseen effects are also looking good with the impending efficiency in energy providing and environment preservation.
