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key question is: How long it will take for this sustainable energy changeover to
occur?
And how much environmental, political, and economic damage is
acceptable in the meantime? If the twenty-first century sustainable energy
challenge is
not met quickly, many less-developed countries will suffer major
famines and social instability from rising energy prices. Ultimately, the world’s
economic order is at stake. Approximately one-third of the world’s population
lives in rural regions without access to the electric grid, and about half of these
same people live without access to safe and clean water. Solar energy is unique
in that it can easily provide electricity and purified water for these people today
with minimal infrastructure requirements by using local energy resources that
promote local economic development. Unfortunately,
traditional fossil fuel
energy use has had serious and growing negative environmental impacts, such
as CO2 emissions, global warming, air pollution, deforestation, and overall
global environmental degradation.
Additionally, fossil fuel reserves are not
infinite or renewable; the supply is limited. Without a doubt, there will be
significant changes in our society’s modern energy infrastructure by the end of
the twenty-first century. A future mix that includes sustainable energy sources
will contribute to our prosperity and health. Our future energy needs must be met
by a mix of sustainable technologies that have minimal environmental impacts.
Potentially, many of these technologies will use
solar energy in all its forms,
permitting gradual evolution into a hydrogen-based economy. A renewable
energy revolution is our hope for a sustainable future. Clearly, the future belongs
to clean energy sources and to those who prepare for it now.
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