Solutions To Global Energy Problems Flashcards
What are sustainable energy policies
They are the solutions to the global energy problems as they balance the interests of the environment, society and economy to ensure a stable supply of energy for the long-term development of the world
Environment
Reduce greenhouse gas emissions
Improve air quality
Conserve ecosystem and land resources
Economy
Ensure stable and sufficient energy supply
Fulfil the need for energy for economic development
Society
Provide safe energy
Provide affordable energy
Create job opportunities
Global solutions (1)
International agreements
In 2015, nearly 200 countries adopted the Paris Agreement, a legally-binding document to combat climate change. These countries promise to :
Speed up the development of renewable energy to replace fossil fuels
Provide financial and technical support to LDCs to enhance energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions
Global solutions (2)
Carbon trading
It is a trading system of emission permits between countries. High-emission countess need to buy extra permits from low-emission countries when their quotas are used up. The system provides economic incentives to lower carbon emissions
Global solutions (3)
Actions of NGOs
Non-governmental organisations organise global campaigns such as Earth Hour to raise public awareness of energy saving. They also urge different government to develop environmentally-friendly energy policies
Examples of international agreements
Kyoto Protocol 1997
Copenhagen Accord 2009
Paris Agreement 2015
What is the kyotol protocol
It is a protocol to the United Nations’ framework convention on climate change aimed at combating global warming
It was initially adopted on 11 December 1997 in Kyoto Japan and in November 2009, 187 states have signed and ratified it
37 industrialised countries commit themselves to a reduction of four greenhouse gases and two groups of gases by 5.2% from the 1990 level
National solutions (1)
Electricity production
Many governments allocate more resources for research and advancement in renewable energy technologies. This helps maintain sufficient energy supply and limit the increase in carbon emissions. Some governments in Europe and the USA have allocated resources on improving infrastructure such as building smart grids to enhance the transmission and efficiency of renewable energy
National solutions (2)
Transport
To reduce the energy consumption and improve air quality, mass transit systems, electric vehicles, cycling tracks and carpooling are promoted
Mass transit systems such as railways carry many passengers at one time. They help control the growth of vehicles in cities.
Some car manufacturers develop electric vehicles which are powered by electricity. They help reduce fuel consumption and air pollution
Some cities build cycling tracks to encourage the public to travel by bicycles, especially for short urban trips. The Netherlands builds an extensive network of cycling tracks. It’s total length accounts to more than 30% of road length and is the longest cycling track in the world
Carpooling is the sharing of car journeys. By having more people using one car, carpooling reduces fuel costs and air pollution. Some countries provide exclusive traffic lanes and parking areas for carpoolers
National solutions (3)
Buildings
Buildings make up 40% of the global energy consumption. Many governments set up laws to require new built new buildings to adopt energy-efficient designs. Some NGOSs such as the US Green Building Council, develop certification system to promote sustainability in buildings
Energy-efficient designs of buildings
Green roof
Reduce the temperature of the building and hence electricity consumption
Solar panels
Capture solar power to provide cleaner energy
Green walls
Reduce the temperature of the building and hence electricity consumption
Lighting system
Special design to harvest natural light efficiently
Solar control glass
Allow natural light to pass through
Reduce the build up of the heat indoors
