Envisioning a Sustainable Future: The International Day of Clean Energy
/The United Nations General Assembly declared January 26 as International Day of Clean Energy to commemorate the founding of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) in 2009. In a world that faces the daily impacts of climate change, there is an urgent need to transition towards a sustainable energy system. This day is a moment when nations, communities, and individuals unite and commit to working for a sustainable future.
The Importance of Clean Energies
Adopting clean energy would help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. According to data from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), carbon dioxide emissions could be reduced by up to 70 gigatonnes by 2050. This is essential to limit global warming and reduce the impact of climate change.
What is Clean Energy?
First of all, we need to distinguish between Clean Energy and Renewable Energy. Renewable energies base their production and origin on a natural source, such as water, wind, among others. The source of these energies is inexhaustible. Clean energy is generated and consumed using methods that do not generate carbon dioxide or any other type of polluting substance for the environment. For this reason, clean energy helps us reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and reduce our environmental impact, promoting long-term sustainability.
Types of Clean Energy
Solar Energy: Solar energy uses solar radiation to produce electricity using photovoltaic panels. In addition, solar thermal energy uses the heat of the sun to produce steam and generate electricity.
Wind Energy: Wind energy uses wind energy to produce electricity using wind turbines. These devices convert the kinetic energy of the wind into electricity.
Hydropower: Hydropower uses the kinetic energy of moving water to produce electricity, controlling the flow of water for continuous energy production.
Geothermal Energy: Geothermal energy depends on the Earth's internal heat. It uses thermal energy stored underground to produce electricity or provide heat.
Biomass Energy: Biomass uses organic materials such as agricultural or forestry residues to produce energy through controlled combustion or conversion to biogas.
Wave Energy: Wave energy harnesses the movement of ocean waves to generate electricity. Although still in its development stages, wave energy has great potential to complement other clean energy sources.
Energy from Ocean Currents: Using technologies such as underwater turbines, the energy generated by ocean currents can be used to produce electricity.
In conclusion, the path to sustainability requires the work and cooperation of all sectors of society. Governments need to develop policies that incentivize clean energy, businesses need to prioritize sustainability, and individuals can contribute by making conscious choices in their daily lives. The International Clean Energy Day is not just a celebration; it is also a call to action, a reminder that our actions today shape the world of tomorrow. This day gives us the opportunity to reflect on the importance of the energy transition, symbolizing hope, unity, and commitment to taking concrete steps towards a more sustainable future.
The transition to clean energy is an investment in the well-being of future generations. It's an opportunity to reshape our economies and societies. The Day of Clean Energy serves as a call to action, encouraging governments, businesses, and individuals to invest in and support the growing green economy.
