Introduction to Environmental Science, 2017 edition

5.1 Introduction

       5.1.1 The World's Growing Energy Needs
       5.1.2 Why Use Renewable Energy Sources?
5. 2 Solar Energy
       5.2.1 Passive and Active Solar Energy
       5.2.3 Environmental Impacts of Solar Energy
5.3 Biomass Energy
        5.3.1 Direct combustion of solid biomass
        5.3.2 Gaseous Biomass
        5.3.3 Liquid Biofuels
        5.3.4 Environmental Impacts of Biomass Energy
5.4 Wind Power
        5.4.1 Environmental Impacts of Wind Energy
5.5 Geothermal Energy
        5.5.1 Environmental Impacts of Geothermal Energy
5.6 Hydroelectric Power (Hydropower)
        5.6.1 Environmental Impacts of Hydroelectric Power
        5.6.2 Potential of Tidal Power
5.7 Other Alternative Renewable Energy Sources
        5.7.1 Hydrogen
        5.7.2 Electric Cars
5.8 Policy and Conservation

By the end of this chapter students will be able to:

1. Describe arguments for alternative energy

2. Explain the following aspects of solar energy:

a. How passive solar energy works and provide examples of its use.

b. How solar panels (photovoltaic cells) work.

c. The limitations and environmental costs associated with solar energy.

3. Explain the following aspects of biofuels / biomass energy:

a. Describe what is meant by the term “carbon neutral” and explain how biomass energy can and cannot be carbon neutral.

b. Describe current achievements in biofuels and potential of this area for growth.

4. Describe wind energy and explain the advantages and disadvantages.

5. Describe geothermal energy and explain the advantages and disadvantages.

6. Describe hydroelectric energy and explain the advantages and disadvantages.

First Algae-Powered Car Attempts to Cross US on 25 Gallons: http://inhabitat.com/first-algae-powered-car-attempts-to-cross-us-on-25-gallons/

Are Electric Vehicles Better for the Environment than Gas-Powered Ones: http://www.technologyreview.com/view/517146/are-electric-vehicles-better-for-the-environment-than-gas-powered-ones/