Summary
- Air pollution, global warming, and energy security are major global issues
- Immediate and drastic solutions are needed to address these problems simultaneously
- Technologies such as carbon capture, blue hydrogen, and new nuclear are not effective solutions
- Wind, water, and solar technologies can solve all three problems at a low cost
- Transitioning to a 100% WWS system can reduce energy costs, create jobs, and address environmental concerns
Article
CleanTechnica highlights the urgent and interconnected issues of air pollution, global warming, and energy security plaguing the world. With millions of deaths caused by air pollution annually, and the looming threat of global warming and energy insecurity, immediate and drastic solutions are required. The focus is on implementing low-cost solutions that address all three problems simultaneously, rather than waiting for miracle technologies or investing in ineffective options like carbon capture, blue hydrogen, and nuclear energy.
The article emphasizes the negative impacts of poor technologies such as carbon capture, direct air capture, blue hydrogen, and electro-fuels. These technologies not only fail to address the root causes of air pollution, climate change, and energy security, but also prolong the reliance on fossil fuels and nuclear energy. On the other hand, existing wind, water, and solar (WWS) technologies are presented as viable solutions that can effectively combat the three major issues at a global scale.
By transitioning to a 100% WWS system, the world can significantly reduce energy consumption, lower annual energy costs, and achieve a 92% reduction in the overall social cost associated with energy, health, and climate impacts. The upfront capital cost of implementing a WWS system by 2050 is estimated at $58 trillion, but the substantial annual energy cost savings result in a payback time of less than six years. The transition to WWS could also create millions of new jobs globally and require minimal land compared to the current energy system.
Despite the existence of 95-97% of the necessary technologies to address the energy, health, and climate challenges, there is a need to educate the public and policymakers on the effectiveness of WWS solutions. By avoiding policies that divert funds to ineffective technologies and emphasizing investments in proven solutions, the world can overcome the distractions and false advertising that have hindered progress towards a sustainable future. Mark Z. Jacobson, a renowned expert in civil and environmental engineering, advocates for the adoption of WWS technologies and the avoidance of “miracle technologies” to achieve a cleaner and more secure energy future.
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