Renewable Sources In America

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Merriam-Webster defines the word green in eighteen ways. The final definition on the page is "tending to preserve environmental quality." However, the placement of the definition does not represent its importance. Now, more than ever, Americans must be green and strive to preserve environmental quality. Unfortunately, energy production in America is largely not green. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, renewable sources generated only about 15% of the electricity in the United States in 2016. Clearly, America must take advantage of greener, renewable sources for energy. Though one may believe the push for using renewable sources, namely wind and solar, is an environmentalist agenda, these sources will reduce pollution …show more content…
Heavy machinery can turn a lush forest into an unrecognizable wasteland. Moreover, oil drilling has adverse environmental effects. Offshore drilling and oil pipelines have had numerous spills and disasters. In fact, the Gulf of Mexico is still recovering from the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Oil drilling is a source of copious pollution, including methane and carbon dioxide. According to the United States Geological Survey, wastewater disposal from hydraulic fracturing and traditional oil wells can induce earthquakes. Evidently, coal, oil, and other nonrenewable energy sources can be very poor for the planet. Wind and solar power are unquestionably cleaner, greener, and overall better than antiquated nonrenewable …show more content…
As long as the wind continues to blow and the sun continues to shine, humans will be able to generate power. Essentially, humans could access unlimited amounts of energy. In today's world, it would almost be unfathomable to consider the possibilities of unlimited energy. The potential is truly amazing, and renewable energy would allow humankind to harness this potential.

Finally, the use of wind, solar, or other nonrenewable sources for power would save humans great amounts of money. After installation, wind and solar infrastructure will only need maintenance to continue generating power. After a break-even point, humans would be getting energy for free. Although corporations would likely enjoy much of the profits, consumers would receive a portion of the savings. Additionally, the government would not need to continue subsidizing fossil fuel industries, thereby freeing up taxpayer dollars for better