Blog_Hum

Can changing the way America uses energy really help prevent global warming' According to Greenpeace, http://www.greenpeace.org/usa/en/campaigns/global-warming-and-energy/energyrevolution/ it can. It is believed that the United States can cut down on the amount of greenhouse gas admissions to a level that will prevent the worst effects of global warming and create a sustainable economy. New concept called the Energy Revolution “shows how by 2050 renewable energy sources could provide around 96 percent of electricity produced in the USA and 98 percent of our total heating demand, accounting for around 88 percent of our overall primary energy demand. The blueprint would create about 1.1 million jobs in the renewables sector alone by 2030. The total fuel cost savings in the scenario described could reach a total of $7.4 trillion, or $173 billion per year.”(Greenpeace, 2010). At the core of this revolution will be a change in the way that energy is produced, distributed and consumed. The five key principles behind this shift will be to, Implement renewable solutions, especially through decentralized energy systems, Respect the natural limits of the environment, Phase out dirty, unsustainable energy sources, Create greater equity in the use of resources, and Decouple economic growth from the consumption of fossil fuels. Is this an issue of moral matter' To a point I believe it can be. Since the economy is in such bad shape and an energy revolution can create more jobs and save the U.S. billions of dollars it is not such a bad thing to try. The moral issue I believe comes down to the fact of whether or not and ho much you believe in helping the environment. Renewable energy is by far better for the environment, climate, and even the future of the human generation. Does moral judgment play a part' Well for some it does such as environmentalists, and people who already have seen the positive effects of renewable energy such as solar power and electric cars. There are several dilemma’s surrounding the issue of an energy revolution however. Renewable energy may be better for the environment, but perhaps not better for your wallet. Solar power may save you thousands of dollars a year on your energy bill , but can cost thalsonds of dollars to get installed at your home to begin with. Gasoline is expensive, but often cheaper and takes you further then electric powered cars. Electric cars tend to be more expensive and do not go as far on a full charge as a car on a full tank of gas. I believe when deciding what you think on this issue you should be sure to obtain all the information you can from both sides of the argument and weigh the pros and cons. Be sure to access moral judgment as far as what is best for the economy and the environment without forgetting all the delimias that may surround the subject. It is important when making a decision that you are aware of your own moral judgment on the situation without jumping to a certain conclusion without having all the facts on the situation. That being said do you think an energy revolution is our solution to global warming'