An oil rig.
The Green Party would phase out the use of fossil fuels, immediately freeze any new investments in the fossil fuel industry and promote/reinvest in clean, low carbon energy generation from renewable sources. This will have positive effects on tackling climate change.
The Green Party want to diminish the influence and power of the fossil fuel industry and in turn, protect our planet for future generations.
Fossil fuels are hydrocarbons such as coal, oil and natural gas, sourced from the organic remains of prehistoric organisms. When these fuels are burnt, the energy released can be harnessed to produce electricity, power vehicles, heat homes, cook food and much more.
A coal mine.
Renewable energy sources can provide comparable energy production and heating. At present some technologies are cost inhibitive, but the rate of technological development is making them more affordable with time.
Examples of renewable energy sources:
Energy that we get from the wind. Wind turbines, powered by the wind are used to generate electricity. Many wind turbines are often placed together in wind farms.
Energy from the sun. Harnessed using solar collectors. The collected energy can then be used to provide heat, light, or other forms of electricity.
The movements of tides are used to power turbines in water. Alternatively, a tidal barrage can be built across estuaries which forces water through small gaps. In the future, it may be possible to have underwater tidal generators out at sea.
In volcanic regions, it is possible to use the natural heat of the earth as an energy source. Cold water is pumped underground and exits a s steam. The steam is then used as a heat source or for powering turbines to produce electricity.
Energy harnessed from the movement of water through rivers, lakes and dams. Hydropower also has the benefit of creating water reserves whilst creating energy.
Biomass energy is generated from organic materials, such as animal or plant waste decaying. If the crops are replaced then biomass can be a long term sustainable source of energy. One major disadvantage is that when biomass is burned, it gives off atmospheric pollutants, including greenhouse gases.
