(From the perspective of a geoscientist)

Today we live in a world where this question is asked in nearly all spheres of life, from religion, sciences, and what have you. The problem is, we see a changing world, to some for the better, to some for the worst and with the increase in knowledge it's even more of an uncertain answer to give.

Every activity carried out by human or by nature either increases the chance of a better world or decrease the probability of our planet surviving. It has been noted that human activity directly influences the responses of nature. Energy seems to be the driving force behind all physical activities taking place on our planet whether created or natural.

Why Energy is so important

Nature thrives on energy, from volcanic eruption, wind, rainfall, ocean currents, movements of seafloors, continental drifting etc.. These forces are essential for earth longevity. Humans also have developed energy In their capacity to carry out their activities. For instance, 80 per cent of the world's population lies in developing countries and their energy consumption is just about 40 per cent of the world total energy consumption. This simply means 60 per cent of the energy consumption comes from developed countries. It should be noted that the developing countries won't stay developing forever and therefore their energy demand would continually increase. Scary right? Nah not scary until you read the next line.

The more the energy consumption, the more the search for energy, and a continual non-stop process for exploiting and exploring energy sources. In fact to show how important energy is, the development of every country is measured by their energy consumption. With a rapid population growth and an increase in industrialization, where are we plunging into? renaissance? Or desolation?

Economic growth is great, yes I agree but "what is economic growth without sustainability?" In fact, the relationship between economic growth and increased energy demand is not always a straightforward linear concept. i.e In a certain country an increase in the gross domestic product would impose an increase in energy demand almost twice the percentage. In this context, the ratio of energy demand to GDP is somewhat of a useful indicator. High ratios support energy dependencies and a strong influence of energy on GDP growth. If this the case then how do developed countries survive this effect? (guess that's the question on your mind).. they focus on energy efficiency by making use of lower energy intensive routes, therefore, maintaining a balance in the energy to GDP ratios. But for developing and underdeveloped countries how do they manage? Truth be told their energy to GDP ratio is quite high and this is simply because they do not have the technology and effective policies to practice energy efficiency methods.

Energy sources such as fossil fuels have contributed a lot to the environment and not in a very positive light. And yet this the most used source of energy in developing countries who contribute about 80 per cent of the world's population. The usage of energy resources in industries leads to environmental damages by polluting the atmosphere from sulphur oxide, nitrous oxide, and carbon monoxide emissions from boilers and furnaces etc not to talk of chlorofluorocarbons emissions from refrigerants use. Continually, the health risks of this pollutant/pollution have been preached and as we can all see the consequences are before us every day. From acid rain, ozone depletion, climate change to carcinogenic diseases to mention a few.

The major cause of air pollution has been found to be related to high levels of smokes and Co2 arising from combustion of sulphur containing fossil fuels. With the presence of smogs in some countries which is due to the effect of black smoke, sulphate/acid aerosol.
More importantly, our climate is being damaged by cyclones, floods, storms, hurricanes, desertification, draughts which are all more intense and longer than it was before and this cannot just be explained as any random event. computer models have shown trends towards more powerful storms, hotter and drier periods.

Whats the hope for our planet? Is the world still getting better?

On just these note it is safe to say that world is not getting better, but a careful study of the information above and you would notice that there is a huge potential that the world is getting better, it is getting better and would get better, although that is just my opinion. I say this because of the increase in information and because the issue of energy efficiency has been raised. With a shift in attitude toward energy consumption from fossil fuel to cleaner and renewable energy, a sustainable and a greener future is sure. Some countries in Europe have recorded successes in adopting renewable energy and has enjoyed all its overwhelming benefits. Some developing countries have adopted energy security policies to meet the need of their growing population, for the now and the future. some strategies for meeting future challenges include energy demand restraint, development, diversification of energy supply sources, energy efficiency and sustainable development.

Why energy conservation is important

For efficient use of energy, energy conservation should be understood. Both concepts related and very prior. When the growth of energy consumption is reduced we say energy is being conserved..is energy conservation possible or futuristic? In my opinion that depends on what source of energy is conserved. But a more important tool that encapsulates me is the efficiency of energy and this is possible when energy intensity(energy usage) in a product, process or area of either production or consumption is reduced without affecting output, consumption or comfort levels...this sounds nice, right? This can be made possible in improving production processes and technology through research, technology and scientific development and it is very possible.

Looking at both concepts as a whole... energy conservation is very possible too. When energy is used more efficiently, yes! Energy can be conserved. And if energy is conserved, that is a sustainable approach.
Is the world getting better? Now it is up to you to answer that….for me, the world is waiting for you and every one of us to make it better. Think renewable, think sustainable and think green….our future depends on us...

#RENEWABLE ENERGY
#THINK GREEN