Sustainable EnergyElectricity is the lifeblood of our modern society and like it or not, we are pretty much addicted to it. We have built our entire economy around the energy industry from electricity powering our homes to the production of desalinated water from electricity. Two major global issues loom ahead, namely that of climate change and the threat of a peaking oil supply. It is simply not an option to continue our wasteful and unsustainable way of life. Many countries are taking the lead on these two incredibly urgent world issues and adapting to new ways of doing things. |
Australia can follow suit and work towards a sustainable and prosperous future, adapting to our new environement, or be brutally forced from our unsustainable way of life through natural disasters, land loss and economic downturn. There are some great technologies on the horizon, and some amazing possibilities, however the will to change is yet to come.
It is also worth pointing out that whilst a lot of sustainable energy progress is focused around the introduction of innovative technology, there are a number of things that we as consumers can do to drive a mindset change which doesn't cost a penny, won't reduce your quality of life, and simply requires 'smarter thinking'. The reduction of energy usage, through smarter design and changing our habits should be a big part of sustainable energy introduction. In America for example many are chosing to power their homes by their own installed solar panels and wind turbines, and Australia is soon to follow tack. Here is a fantastic resource which explains how to power your own home with renewable energy!. There are a variety of simple ways in which consumers can slow down their rate of energy usage and these are not all obvious.
Sustainable Energy Intro
Solar Energy
Geothermal Energy
Wind Energy
Wave Energy
Biomass Energy
Electric Vehicles
Peak Oil
Resources