Topic > Solar energy is more environmentally friendly - 647

Solar energy is more environmentally friendly. This alternative source does not rely on the incineration of carbonaceous substances to produce energy unlike commonly used fossil fuels and therefore does not exacerbate the air and water pollution problems the world is currently facing. Furthermore, solar energy has only a few harmful effects on society and these can be easily eradicated by modern technology and strict regulation. During the energy production process, solar factories release toxic chemicals; however, these chemicals do not pose a threat because solutions already exist that can remedy this situation. Apart from this, solar energy is classified as renewable energy; therefore, it does not suffer the damage that is usually suffered when using fossil fuels. Fossil fuel energy production involves hazardous activities, such as mining, drilling, land clearing, and waste disposal, which could be destructive to both humans and the environment. Mining causes soil erosion, which could wipe out soil organisms and destroy aquatic ecosystems. The land reclamation method is not a solution because the chemical properties of the reclaimed mining lands have been immensely altered and therefore this method cannot guarantee the regrowth of native flora. The Bagacay Mine in Hinabangan, Western Samar, Philippines, serves as an example of the destruction caused by mining. Reports show that the area lacks vegetation, narrower creeks, and unstable slopes that could cause landslides along with siltation of drainage systems (Mines and Geosciences Bureau & Mining Environment and Safety Division, n.d.). On top of that, mining is dangerous for workers. An investigation conducted by Goodstein (2005) revealed that the death toll from coal mining in England alone exceeded 100,000 during the second half of the 19th century. Oil extraction also has negative impacts; contributes to pollution through oil spills, gas flares and waste dumping. The Niger Delta, located in Africa, is one of the largest wetlands in the world and has been devastated due to oil exploitation and exploration. Between 1993 and mid-2007, 35 cases of oil spills were recorded. These are disastrous because oil spills discharge hydrocarbons into soil and water sources and contaminate crops along with marine ecosystems. The oil spill also prevents the absorption of oxygen in the mangroves and ultimately leads to death. Gas flares also release hydrocarbon compounds such as methane and sulfur oxides, which contribute to the production of greenhouse gases..