Environmental and Societal Impact of Energy

The production and consumption of energy places a wide range of pressures on the
environment and on public health, Energy related greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions
remain dominant, with the largest emitting sector being electricity and followed by
transport. Taking a long-term perspective, it is also important to consider the potential
impact of climate change on energy production and consumption. Environmental
pressures due to Energy Production and Consumption:

- Climate change (caused by Greenhouse --gas (GHG) emissions)

- Eutrophication (over-fertilization --caused by pollution with nitrogen and
phosphorus)
- Human and ecotoxic effects caused by --urban and regional air pollution
- Depletion of abiotic resources (fossil --energy carriers and metals)
- Depletion of biotic resources (most --notably fish and wood)
Enhancing renewable energy is another key factor for reaching the dual goals of
security of supply and reduction in GHG and air pollution emissions. The sun provides
steady and enormous flow of radiant energy that far exceeds what the world requires for
electricity fuel. Government should focus on such technologies. Since generating
electricity directly from sunlight does not deplete any of the earth's natural resources
and supplies the earth with energy continuously, solar energy is a renewable source of
electricity generation. Solar energy is our earth's primary source of renewable energy,
which is free from any environmental impact and is available continuously. In addition, a
more mature market for renewable energy technologies is expected to bring about a
number of social and economic benefits, including regional and local development
opportunities, export opportunities, social cohesion and employment.

Enhancing energy efficiency is often a very cost-effective policy, too. As a result of the
triple challenge we are facing today (climate change, energy security and rising energy
prices), it is crucial to run energy efficiency program. Energy generations companies
(combustion of fossil fuels) should take care of the society by not polluting water and
air, which directly impacts health of society. Energy generation companies like hydel
project, should also take care of the surrounding society and should ensure their
livelihood. The present rural society of India is using biomass as fuel, which seriously
impacts health of villagers. Government should start educating villagers and provide
subsidized alternative renewable source of energy.

Policy Recommendation:

- More focus on renewable energy promotion like solar energy, which has got
environmental, social and economic benefits.
- Enhancing energy efficiency policy for industries and household, which will solve
three of our critical areas like climate change, energy security and rising prices.
- Penalty for energy generation/conservations units which has direct and indirect
impact on health of the society
- Government policies like JN Gramin rojgar yojna should be linked to these
subsidies to further encourage setting up of off grid facilities in rural areas .