Renewable energy

Explore energy use, its environmental impact, and practical ways to save today

Energy is essential for our everyday lives, from charging electronics and cooking food to washing clothes and lighting homes. However, producing and consuming energy can have serious environmental impacts, including air and water pollution, and it contributes to climate change.

Problems and challenges caused by energy

Fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and natural gas, still produce well over half of the world’s electricity. Burning these fuels releases carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas that traps heat in the atmosphere and drives global warming. Fossil fuels are non-renewable and take millions of years to form, meaning the time left to use them is limited.

Switching to renewable energy sources like wind, solar, water, and biomass is essential. The rising cost of fuel is also encouraging people to use energy more efficiently, which is key to reducing environmental impact.

Fridge door left open

Common energy wasting habits at home

  • Leaving lights on unnecessarily

  • Keeping fridge or freezer doors open too long

  • Running the dishwasher when half full

  • Washing clothes at high temperatures

  • Setting the thermostat too high

  • Leaving electronics plugged in

Project ideas…

Landscape study: Examine your local area for energy use and visible energy infrastructure

Home energy survey: Track daily or weekly energy use, noting appliance types, fuel sources, and energy-saving efforts

Energy inventory: Identify different energy sources and highlight fossil fuel reliance

Renewable energy research: Investigate renewable alternatives and explore long-term solutions to energy challenges

Site visit: Tour a renewable energy facility to learn how wind, solar, or water power is generated