One solution for the issue of a lack of sustainable energy is the use of biomass fuels. According to John Vohs, production using biomass fuels has far smaller environmental impacts than oil or natural gas. Wikipedia proves that biomass works as a form of energy by providing anecdotal evidence of a national park in Congo that has switched to biomass, replacing charcoal.
While biomass is not completely eco-friendly, it is sustainable, and makes for an excellent first step in integrating renewable energy. It also helps to cut down on deforestation. This is because biomass replaces coal and charcoal, charcoal being made from wood, and many coal mines being in forested areas. |
Another solution for integrating more sustainable energy into a fossil fuel centered infrastructure is the use of fuel cells. John Vohs says that fuel cells can be used as a bridging technology between older forms of energy, and newer, more renewable forms of energy. Wikipedia provides information that supports this usage of fuel cells, citing them as one of the most efficient forms of renewable energy in a cost-benefit analysis.
Fuel cells would help with one of the largest energy problems—cars—and can be later on paired with other forms of sustainable energy, such as wind or solar power. Because of this ability to be integrated with current technology, and ease of expansion with future technologies, fuel cells make for an excellent transition energy. |