Renewable & Non-Renewable Energy Sources & Mineral Impacts

Posted on Apr 1, 2025 in Geology

Wind Energy (Renewable)

Wind energy utilizes wind turbines to generate electricity. It is a type of energy that does not emit pollution during operation. However, potential disadvantages include impacts on dry surface soil, and blades with metal components can produce electromagnetic noise and interference. It is an intermittent power source, dependent on wind availability.

Geothermal Energy (Non-Renewable)

In some locations, geothermal sources flow naturally as hot water (like in spas) or steam. In a geothermal plant, cold water can be pumped deep underground through pipes, and the resulting high-pressure steam is collected through other pipes. This steam drives a turbine, which spins a generator, transforming kinetic energy into electricity.

While relatively clean during operation, the primary issue is that it’s often non-renewable in specific locations; the thermal energy of individual wells may deplete over time (e.g., potentially within 15 years, though regeneration takes geological timescales). These plants require specific locations, typically volcanic or geologically active areas.

Hydrogen Fuel (Potentially Renewable)

Hydrogen fuel holds potential, especially as hydrogen is abundant.

  • Advantages: It does not produce CO2 when used in fuel cells, and existing natural gas pipelines could potentially be adapted for transport.
  • Disadvantages: Obtaining pure hydrogen efficiently is challenging, and current methods often rely on fossil fuels.
  • Applications: Primarily considered for transportation and generating electricity via hydrogen fuel cells.

Nuclear Fusion Energy (Renewable)

Nuclear fusion involves merging light atomic nuclei to form a heavier nucleus, releasing an enormous amount of energy in the process.

  • Advantages: Potentially clean and utilizes abundant fuel sources, making it virtually inexhaustible.
  • Disadvantages: Currently, it remains largely theoretical and is not yet practically or commercially viable. Significant technological challenges must be overcome.

Efficient Energy Use

Cogeneration

Cogeneration, also known as Combined Heat and Power (CHP), involves simultaneously generating two useful forms of energy from a single fuel source, typically electricity and heat (e.g., for heating water or buildings). This increases overall energy efficiency.

Energy Efficiency Actions

Improving energy efficiency involves various strategies:

  • Increasing efficiency within the electrical grid system.
  • Accurately pricing the true cost of energy consumption.
  • Reducing consumption across different sectors (industrial, commercial, residential).
  • Personal Saving Measures:
    • Prioritizing public transportation over private vehicles.
    • Implementing passive solar architecture where feasible.
    • Purchasing energy-efficient appliances.
    • Installing thermostats on heating/cooling systems.
    • Increasing recycling efforts.
  • Policy Measures:
    • Implementing penalties for excessive energy consumption.
    • Running public awareness campaigns.
    • Integrating energy conservation into school curricula.
    • Conducting energy audits for businesses to monitor and control usage.

Mineral Resources and Environmental Impacts

Aluminum Extraction Impacts

Aluminum is extracted from bauxite ore. A significant issue is that bauxite is often abundant in tropical regions, requiring the destruction of forests for mining.

Main Impacts:

  • Deforestation and biodiversity loss due to habitat destruction or fragmentation in bauxite mining areas.
  • Exacerbation of socio-economic disparities between the Global North and South, as processing often occurs in wealthier nations, leading to an unequal distribution of economic benefits.
  • The production of aluminum via electrolysis is one of the most energy-intensive industrial processes globally.

An alternative to reduce these impacts is to significantly increase aluminum recycling.

General Mining Impacts

Mining activities have widespread environmental and social consequences:

  • Atmosphere: Air pollution from solid particles, dust, and gases.
  • Water: Surface and groundwater pollution from runoff containing sediment and toxic elements.
  • Ground: Irreversible occupation of land, alteration of soil profiles, and changes in land use.
  • Flora and Fauna: Destruction of vegetation cover and wildlife habitats, leading to biodiversity loss.
  • Morphology and Landscape: Alteration of landforms and disruption of the natural landscape character.
  • Sociocultural Environment: Impacts on areas of natural or cultural interest, increased traffic density, and potential social disruption.