According to the first law of thermodynamics, energy can neither be created nor destroyed. Rather, you can only transfer or convert it from one form to another.
While this may seem obvious, the ramifications are critical when designing green energy technology to save the planet and reduce pollution. The world needs to see clean energy as an integral part of everyday life, rather than a luxury.
What is clean energy?
Clean energy refers to renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind and hydroelectric power. These energy sources do not produce greenhouse gases or other pollutants that can harm our air quality and climate.
As more and more clean energy technologies emerge, the world will be able to rely less on fossil fuels and avoid the dangers they pose in terms of climate change and pollution.
Designers have an essential role in promoting clean energy by creating sustainable solutions that address social and environmental problems. While at Bloom Energy, Scott Sandell saw firsthand how a company’s design choices could significantly reduce its impact on the planet.
Scott Sandell’s daughter inspired him to revolutionize the clean energy landscape to build a world where all of us can share the benefits of sustainable innovation.
The company highly promoted the use of renewable energy, and his experience helped him understand what it takes to create products with a smaller footprint.
Benefits of designing solutions that promote clean energy
There are no ifs or buts about it, the energy industry needs to change drastically to make our world sustainable in the long run. For instance, roughly 1/3 of carbon dioxide emissions in the US come from the electricity sector alone.
This statistic illustrates a need for clean, renewable and efficient power generation sources like solar and wind. As a result, designing solutions that promote clean energy should be a top priority for any designer. Here are some benefits of doing so:
Preserving the environment
The environment is an integral part of our world, and we should preserve it for future generations. One way we can do this is by using more clean energy sources.
Wind, solar and water power are all viable solutions that do not release greenhouse gases or toxic chemicals into the atmosphere. Utilizing these energy sources will ensure the environment remains healthy while preventing long-term damage to the planet.
Conserving natural resources
The world’s natural resources are depleting at an alarming rate. To preserve our environment, we must find new ways to conserve these valuable resources.
By implementing clean energy solutions, businesses and homeowners can help conserve the earth’s limited supply of fossil fuels and other natural resources.
For example, suppose a company or individual switches to cleaner energy sources like solar panels or wind turbines. They decrease their dependence on fuel that would need purchasing from foreign suppliers.
Clean energy solutions save money
A clean energy solution that reduces your carbon footprint can help you save money in the long term. For example, solar power for your home will reduce or eliminate your electricity bill and keep more cash in your pocket.
More money in your pocket may mean more financial security. Plus, tax incentives and rebates offset some of the costs of installing a clean energy system on your property.
One specific design solution that promotes clean energy is green buildings that use sustainable materials and generate their own power. Green buildings provide healthier working environments and savings on heating and cooling costs.
Diversifying energy supply
The American energy supply has been dominated by coal, natural gas and oil for decades. Coal supplies 21.9% of America’s electricity needs and is the most carbon-intensive power generation source.
To diversify the fuel sources that power our cities and towns, we must look to clean energy solutions like wind, solar, biomass, hydroelectric power (HEP) and geothermal.
With so many clean energy options available today, it is easier than ever to find a source that will work for your specific community.
Generate energy with no greenhouse gas emissions
Clean energy solutions are a great way to help the environment. They help to generate energy with no greenhouse gases emitted, and they do not use any fossil fuels.
This means that clean energy solutions have a much lower impact on the environment than traditional energy sources such as coal, natural gas or oil.
They can also be used with other forms of renewable energy, such as solar or wind power, to create an even more sustainable solution.
Final thoughts
Designing solutions promoting clean energy is an opportunity for designers to combat climate change and improve the world. By considering the environmental impact of our products, we can work to make society more sustainable and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels.
Sustainable design will help us live with limited resources. The public needs to be educated about the dangers of global warming and be provided with tools for living a low-carbon life.
Interesting Related Article: “5 Ways to Create Clean Energy At Home”