18CEO406T Unit 5 2024
18CEO406T Unit 5 2024
18CEO406T Unit 5 2024
RENEWABLE AND
ALTERNATIVE ENERGY
TECHNOLOGIES
01
INTRODUCTION
Introduction to Renewable Energy
Renewable energy is energy that is generated from natural resources, such
as sunlight, wind, rain, tides, and geothermal heat, which are renewable and
replenished naturally. Unlike fossil fuels, which are finite and will eventually
run out, renewable energy sources can be harnessed to provide clean and
sustainable energy for generations to come. Benefits of Renewable Energy
• Reduces greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution
• Decreases dependence on fossil fuels and foreign oil
• Creates jobs and stimulates economic growth in the renewable energy
sector.
• Improves energy security and reliability
02
“Social Sustainability”
Social sustainability refers to creating a society that is equitable,
inclusive, and just for all members. This involves promoting human
rights, reducing inequality, and ensuring that basic needs such as food,
shelter, and healthcare are met. It also involves promoting social cohesion
and community engagement.
ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY
• Environmental sustainability is the practice of conserving natural resources
and protecting the planet for future generations. It involves reducing waste,
pollution, and carbon emissions, and promoting the use of renewable energy
sources.
• Environmental sustainability is one of the three pillars of sustainable
development, along with economic and social sustainability. These three
pillars are interconnected and must be balanced to achieve sustainable
development.
• Sustainable development is important because it ensures that the needs of
the present are met without compromising the ability of future generations
to meet their own needs. It also promotes economic growth, social equality,
and environmental protection.
SOCIAL SUSTAINABILITY
What is Social Sustainability?
Social sustainability refers to the ability of a society to meet the
needs of its members while preserving the well-being of future
generations. It involves creating and maintaining a just and equitable
society that provides opportunities for everyone to thrive, regardless of
their background or circumstances.
The Importance of Sustainable
Development
Environmental Sustainability
Sustainable development aims to
protect the environment and natural
resources for future generations while
meeting the needs of the present. This
includes reducing carbon emissions,
conserving biodiversity, and promoting
renewable energy sources.
The Importance of Sustainable
Development
Social Sustainability
Sustainable development also aims to
promote social equity and justice by
ensuring that everyone has access to the
resources and opportunities they need
to thrive. This includes promoting
education and healthcare, reducing
poverty and inequality, and promoting
gender and racial equality.
The Sustainable Development Goals
In 2015, the United Nations adopted the 17
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a universal
call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and
ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity by
2030. The SDGs cover a wide range of issues, including
poverty, hunger, health, education, gender equality,
clean water and sanitation, affordable and clean
energy, decent work and economic growth, industry,
innovation and infrastructure, reduced inequalities,
sustainable cities and communities, responsible
consumption and production, climate action, life below
water, life on land, peace, justice and strong
institutions, and partnerships for the goals.
ADAPTATION MEASURES
TABLE OF CONTENTS
01 Introduction
02 Adaptation Measures
04 Case Studies
05 Conclusion
01
INTRODUCTION
INTRODUCTION
Adaptation measures refer to strategies and actions taken to
address the challenges posed by climate change, particularly in the
context of building infrastructure. Green building technologies
encompass sustainable building practices and technologies that
promote environmental responsibility and resource efficiency. In an era
of climate change, it is essential to understand how adaptation
measures and green building technologies play a pivotal role in ensuring
the resilience and sustainability of buildings. The impact of climate
change on buildings is significant and growing, with increased risks of
extreme weather events, rising temperatures, and more. Both
adaptation measures and green building technologies are instrumental
in mitigating these challenges.
02
ADAPTATION MEASURES
Adaptation Measures
● Adaptation measures are strategies to enhance
buildings’ resilience to climate change impacts.
They are distinct from mitigation measures
focusing on reducing greenhouse gas
emissions. Adaptation measures are about
preparing buildings to withstand and adapt to
various climate change hazards.
● To ensure effective implementation, it's
essential to consider factors such as design,
installation, operation, and maintenance.
Collaboration with experts in the field is often
advisable.
Here are some examples of adaptation measures that can be
implemented in buildings:
CASE STUDIES
Case Study 1: The Edge, Amsterdam, Netherlands
The Edge in Amsterdam is a sustainable office building known for its cutting-edge
design and environmental performance.
• Adaptation Measures: The building employs elevated foundations, flood-
resistant materials, and drainage systems to cope with heavy rainfall and
potential flooding.
• Green Building Technologies: Solar panels, smart lighting, and rainwater
harvesting contribute to its sustainability. The building generates more energy
than it consumes.
• Outcomes: The Edge achieved a BREEAM "Outstanding" rating and exemplifies
energy efficiency and occupant comfort.
• Challenges and Lessons Learned: Initial costs were a challenge, but
investment in innovative technologies paid off through energy savings and
tenant satisfaction
Case Study 2: One Angel Square, Manchester, UK
One Angel Square in Manchester, UK, is the Co-operative Group's headquarters,
renowned for sustainability.
• Adaptation Measures: The building features rainwater harvesting and a
responsive HVAC system to address climate change challenges in the UK.
• Green Building Technologies: A combined heat and power (CHP) system,
efficient lighting, and advanced insulation reduce energy consumption and
emissions.
• Outcomes: One Angel Square received a BREEAM "Outstanding" rating,
significantly reducing operational costs and carbon emissions.
• Challenges and Lessons Learned: Initial costs and specialized expertise
were challenges, but the long-term benefits included energy savings and
improved comfort.
05
CONCLUSION
Conclusion
In summary, adaptation measures and green building technologies are critical
components in addressing the challenges of climate change within the realm of
building infrastructure. Through the case studies of The Edge in Amsterdam
and One Angel Square in Manchester, we've seen tangible proof of their efficacy
in enhancing building resilience, energy efficiency, and overall sustainability.
These strategies offer not only environmental benefits but also economic
advantages, including reduced operational costs and improved occupant well-
being. The importance of integrating adaptation measures and green building
technologies into our building projects cannot be overstated, as they are key to
creating a resilient and sustainable built environment in the face of an ever-
changing climate landscape.
PUBLIC AWARENESS
01
INTRODUCTION: THE
IMPORTANCE OF PUBLIC
AWARENESS IN
ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
INTRODUCTION
Raising public awareness about environmental issues not only
benefits the planet, but also has economic advantages. By promoting
sustainable practices and encouraging environmentally friendly
choices, we can create a more sustainable economy.
Some of the economic benefits of raising public awareness
include:
• Reducing costs associated with waste management and pollution
control.
• Encouraging the development of new green industries and
technologies.
• Creating new job opportunities in sustainable sectors.
02
Enhances air quality and human Ensures a healthier and more sustainable
05 10
health future for generations to come
Why Carbon Sequestration Matters?
The Role of Excess Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
in Global Warming:
● Global warming is primarily driven by the
accumulation of excess CO2 and other
greenhouse gases in the Earth's
atmosphere.
● These gases trap heat from the sun,
creating a "greenhouse effect" and leading
to a rise in global temperatures.
The Need for Reducing Carbon Emissions:
• Human activities, such as burning fossil
fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas),
deforestation, and industrial processes,
have significantly increased CO2 emissions.
• These emissions are a major contributor to
climate change, resulting in more frequent
and severe weather events, melting polar
ice, and rising sea levels.
• Addressing carbon emissions is vital to
combat these impacts and protect the
planet's ecosystems.
CARBON SINKS
• Natural carbon sinks are ecosystems and natural features
that absorb and store carbon from the atmosphere.
Examples include forests, oceans, wetlands, and soils. These
ecosystems play a critical role in reducing atmospheric
carbon and slowing climate change.
• Forests, especially old-growth forests, are essential natural
carbon sinks as they absorb carbon dioxide during
photosynthesis, storing significant amounts of carbon in
their trunks, branches, and roots.
• Oceans are vast carbon sinks, with the capacity to absorb
substantial quantities of CO2 from the atmosphere.
• These two natural ecosystems play crucial roles in reducing
atmospheric carbon and mitigating climate change,
emphasizing the importance of conserving both terrestrial
and marine environments for a sustainable future.
CARBON CAPTURE AND STORAGE (CCS)
• Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) is a technology that
captures carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from
industrial processes and power plants before they are
released into the atmosphere.
• It involves three main steps: capturing CO2 emissions,
transporting them to a storage site, and securely
storing the CO2 underground.
• Industrial CCS involves capturing CO2 emissions from
sources like coal-fired power plants and industrial
facilities, preventing their release into the atmosphere.
Geological CCS stores captured CO2 in underground
formations, as seen in projects like Sleipner in the
North Sea and Petra Nova in Texas, showcasing its
efficacy in curbing emissions from both industry and
energy sectors.
Types of Carbon Sequestration
• Biological Sequestration
Natural ecosystems, like forests, that capture and store carbon through plant
growth and soil processes
• Geological Sequestration
Secure storage of captured carbon dioxide (CO2) in underground geological
formations, such as depleted oil and gas reservoirs or deep saline aquifers.
• Direct air capture (DAC)
Innovative carbon sequestration technologies, including direct air capture
(DAC), enhanced weathering, and novel carbon storage materials.
• Oceanic Sequestration
Processes that enhance marine ecosystems to capture and store carbon in the
world's oceans, such as ocean fertilization.
Advantages and Disadvantages
• Mitigates Climate Change: Effectively • Cost and Energy Intensive: Some
reduces atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) carbon sequestration methods can be
levels, helping combat global warming. expensive and energy-intensive,
• Enhances Ecosystem Health: Supports affecting their feasibility.
healthy ecosystems, protects biodiversity, • Technological Risks: There are
and restores degraded lands. potential risks associated with carbon
• Economic Opportunities: Creates jobs capture and storage, including leaks
and economic benefits in sectors like from storage sites.
forestry, carbon trading, and clean energy. • Ethical and Environmental Concerns:
• Versatile Applications: Can be applied to Controversies regarding potential side
various emission sources, including effects, such as land use changes and
industrial processes and energy harm to local communities.
production • Not a Permanent Solution: Carbon
sequestration is not a substitute for
reducing emissions at their source.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, carbon sequestration is a critical tool in our
efforts to combat climate change and its far-reaching impacts.
Through various methods, including natural sinks, geological
storage, and technological innovations, we can capture and store
carbon dioxide, reducing its presence in the atmosphere and
mitigating global warming. However, we must recognize the
urgency of this task and the challenges that lie ahead. While carbon
sequestration offers promising advantages in climate mitigation,
it's not a standalone solution. We must continue to reduce
emissions at their source and embrace sustainable practices. Each
individual, community, and nation has a role to play in supporting
carbon sequestration efforts. By taking action and advocating for
sustainable policies, we can work together to secure a healthier,
more resilient future for our planet and generations to come.
CLEAN ENERGY
& GREEN TECHNOLOGY
TABLE OF CONTENTS
01 Life cycle analysis
02 Clean Technology
04 Biodegradable waste
01
2. Inventory
3. Impact assessment
4. Improvement assessment
Types of LCA
● Conceptual LCA: very basic level looking at qualitative
inventory, to create flow diagrams and understand, for example,
which components have the highest relative environmental
impact.
● Simplified LCA: Basically a proper LCA but using more generic
data and standard modules for energy production. A simplified
assessment that focuses on the most important environmental
aspects, and thoroughly assesses the reliability of the results.
● Detailed LCA: The full process of in-depth data collection,
highly specific to the product in question.
02
CLEAN TECHNOLOGY
What is clean technology?
• Clean technology, in short cleantech or climate-tech, is any
process, product, or service that reduces negative
environmental impacts through significant energy efficiency
improvements, the sustainable use of resources, or
environmental protection activities.
• Clean technology includes a broad range of technology
related to recycling, renewable energy,
information technology, green transportation,
electric motors, green chemistry, lighting, grey water, and
more.
Examples of Clean technology
Examples of clean technologies
in daily life are Solar heating
devices, Pressure cookers,
Energy-efficient refrigerators,
CFLs, etc.
03
BIODEGRADABLE PLASTICS
Biodegradable plastics
• Biodegradable plastics are plastics that can be
decomposed by the action of living organisms,
usually microbes, into water, carbon dioxide,
and biomass.
ROLE OF ENVIRONMENTALISTS
Who are Environmentalists?
• Environmentalists are people who have a deep passion
for the environment and a strong commitment to its well-
being.
• They come from diverse backgrounds, including
scientists, activists, policymakers, and concerned citizens.
• Their work is of paramount importance in addressing
pressing environmental issues.
ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES