In a Flash Show Carbon dioxide is produced from the burning of fossil fuels like coal and gas. What is non-renewable energy?Non-renewable energy is a source of energy that will eventually run out. Most sources of non-renewable energy are fossil fuels, such as coal, gas, and oil. These natural resources are a major source of power for a vast amount of industries – however, there are numerous downsides to non-renewable energy, including their negative environmental impact and the fact they are in limited supply. Types of Non-Renewable Energy
CoalCoal comes from the remains of plants that died hundreds of millions of years ago. It has the highest level of carbon of all fossil fuels. Let's go! >
OilOil – also known as petroleum – can be extracted and refined in order to make products such as gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. Let's go! >
Natural GasNatural gas was formed from the remains of tiny sea plants and animals that died millions of years ago. It is mainly composed of methane. Let's go! >
Nuclear EnergyNuclear energy is released when atoms' nuclei are fused together (fusion) or split apart (fission). Nuclear power plants produce electricity through nuclear fission. Let's go! > What is non-renewable energy used for?Non-renewable energy sources can be used for all kinds of things. Over 70% of the energy used in industrial processes comes from non-renewable sources, while fossil fuels are also used for many household purposes. We can use non-renewable energy for: Electricity Heating Manufacturing Transportation Non-Renewable Energy: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly!What's good about non-renewable energy sources?
What's (really) bad about non-renewable energy sources?
Speedy SummaryThe future of energy is shifting to renewables. While there are some advantages to using fossil fuels for our energy, it's clear that the negatives far outweigh the positives! Without an alternative source of energy, we could soon be facing a major energy crisis – and a disaster for our planet's health. |