Page 83 - “GREENING” THE CONTENT IN CXC® SYLLABUSES
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E-LEARNING MODULES AND LEARNING GUIDE FOR TEACHERS
Objective 6: Describe the environmental impacts associated with
the use of renewable energy sources.
The use of the various renewable energy sources provides enormous socio-economic benefits
but despite these benefits, there are also environmental concerns that are associated with the
installation and use of these resources. Some environmental concerns and socio-economic
benefits are presented below:
Environmental and socio-economic Impacts associated with the use of:
Solar energy
• The main environmental concern regarding solar energy is clearing of land and its
potential destruction of habit, and the use of hazardous materials for the production
of the panels. Another major concern is the disposal of the components of the solar
systems after its useful life (batteries, panels, and inverters) that can cause
environmental harm if not disposed of properly.
• The socio-economic benefits of solar energy include job creation, increased income,
industrial development, stable and reliable electricity which help to reduce poverty in
remote and rural areas and contribute to better health care and improved education.
Wind energy
• The main environmental concern regarding wind energy is the threat to wildlife such as
birds and bats, clearing of land and habitat loss. Birds are often killed. Offshore wind
energy systems can also impact on marine life.
• The socio-economic benefits of wind energy include job creation, increased income,
industrial development, cheap, stable, and reliable electricity.
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