Air/Energy/Climate

Energy/Climate

How does this affect me?

Energy from fossil fuels depletes our natural resources and affects our climate.

Depleting our natural resources

One out of 200 countries consumes approximately 25% of all energy used on Earth: the United States. Although the U.S. population is only 5% of the world’s population, we consume 25% of all energy used on earth. 

When other countries, particularly China and India, begin to compete with us for these same energy sources, the quantity of fossil fuels being burnt and the associated costs per gallon will rise dramatically.

You thought gas prices in the U.S. were pretty high, right? Most economists predict that gas prices will rise sharply over the next 10 years to match prices elsewhere in the world. They expect by the next decade that we will pay at least $5 for a gallon of gas.

At that point, we will see many more energy-saving initiatives:

• More fuel efficient vehicles
  
  
• Improved energy emissions standards
  
  
• Better insulated houses and commercial buildings
  
  
• More commercial energy-saving devices in place

The U.S. will have to cut its current dependency on fossil fuels by 50% to reduce the problems that will accumulate, both in economic terms and in air quality at home. Alternative sources of energy to fossil fuels are being developed, including fuel from plants (biofuels), wind and solar generators, and hydrogen-powered engines.  

Changing Climates

Burning fossil fuels produces ozone and carbon dioxide, gradually increasing the earth’s temperature. Increasing temperatures could melt the polar ice caps. This will raise the sea water levels and foster more severe tropical storms. Isn’t it amazing how so many parts of our ecological system are connected?

A sixth of the world’s population, those who live in coastal communities, will be affected by rising sea levels. They could lose their property, their livelihood, and in many places the ability to provide their own food. North Carolina coastal towns are especially vulnerable to tropical storm and sea level changes.