Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/809226
maltatoday Energy & Environment Getting the energy we need affects our environment in many different ways as some energy sources have a greater impact than others. Energy is lost to the environment during any energy transformation, usually as heat. Notice the heat from your computer or car after it has been in use for a while. Nothing is completely energy efficient. Fortunately, the energy industry has become increasingly aware of the importance of environmental protection and is working to reduce its long- term impact. More than 85% of the world's current energy needs are met through fossil fuels such as coal, oil and natural gas. Demand for energy is projected to increase primarily in developing countries that are beginning to drive more cars and use more electricity. While there is enough fossil fuels supply for several more decades, what will happen when it starts running low? There are ways to reduce waste and use existing technologies to keep the air cleaner by reducing fossil fuels emissions. Expansion of all economic energy sources will be required: coal, nuclear, biomass, other renewables, unconventional oil and natural gas. Options like these are part of a concept called energy sustainability – meeting the needs of the present without compromising the needs of the future. Energy sustainability can inspire technical innovation with an environmentally conscious mindset. Renewable resources such as sunlight, wind and biomass provide a source of sustainable energy. Regulations designed to reduce air, water and waste emissions from energy-related activities such as coal mining and electricity generation also help with energy sustainability. Meeting energy demand over the next century will require not just producing more, but also using what we do produce much more efficiently. How can we use less energy to power everything from our computers to cars? How can we produce more with less? How do we supply consumers with affordable energy to allow them to maintain a comfortable standard of living? The answer will require both new technologies and new cultural habits.