Energy is essential in all processes that make life simple in the society. It is also important in movement, growth, and development in living things. Therefore, it is important that the society comes up with feasible and efficient ways of producing energy. Research on energy is based on ‘sound science’ which is a common phrase used by government agencies and corporations to mean scientific research aimed at proving a claim (Morrone & Lohner, 2002). Rathore & Panwar, (2007) also claim that sound science means insisting on higher evidences before an action to protect environment or public health is done.
Therefore, in considering best energy sources the law of conservation should be considered. The law specifies that energy is neither created nor destroyed (Rajan, 2003). This means that in a system energies are in a cycle where they are being transformed from one form to another meaning that the net energy is always a constant.
Growth of human population and excessive usage of energy have resulted as a result of higher birth rates and decreased mortality rates (Rathore & Panwar, 2007). Higher human populations and excessive energy consumption would result in depletion of energy resources which would affect future generations. Impacts include: reduced food supply, lower life expectancies, higher mortality rates, and reduced comfort in life.
Energy sources can be categorized into renewable and non-renewable resources. Renewable include: wind, solar, and hydro while non-renewable energy sources are fossil and nuclear. The pros and cons of each are incorporated in the slide. However, from the pros and cons of each source it is important to note that renewable sources are more beneficial in the long run and incorporate sound science principles.
References
Rajan, G. G. (2003). Optimizing Energy Efficiencies in Industry. New York: Mc GrawHill. Pp. 188-210
Rathore, N. S., and Panwar, N. L. (2007). Renewable Energy Sources for Sustainable Development. New Delhi: New India Publishing. Pp. 89-285
Morrone, M., and Lohner, T.W. (2002). Sound Science, Junk Policy: Environmental Health Science and the Decision Making Process. Connecticut: Greenwood Press. Pp. 1-15
