Go Green – Save The Environment
Green energy or Eco energy is used as an umbrella term for energy produced or generated by natural, renewable resources, which causes minimal negative impact on the environment. Resources for green energy are continuously replenished by nature and therefore cannot be exhausted. Common sources of green, renewable energy are solar, hydro, biomass and wind energy. Nuclear energy is also considered green as it generates less waste compared to other conventional energy sources like coal or oil. With growing environmental concerns, climate change and depletion of natural resources like coal, oil and fossil fuels, most countries are formulating policies to encourage the use of green, renewable energy by providing subsidies and incentives.

Various Forms Of Green Energy Resources
Green energy involves generating power from natural phenomenon like wind, sunlight, tides, plants and geothermal heat generated deep within the earth.

• Wind power can be harnessed by using turbines to generate electricity. Large turbines are connected to a system where power is collected, stored and distributed. It is growing at a substantial rate every year and is widely used in Asia, America and Europe.
• Solar power is a renewable energy source, highly suitable for heating and powering portable devices. Solar photovoltaic modules directly convert sunlight into electricity with the use of semi-conductor technology.
• Geothermal energy is generated in the form of heat from underneath the earth’s surface.
• Hydro power electricity can be generated through water turbines. The movement of water is used to power turbines that are attached to generators.
• Wave power is a huge energy resource which can provide a significant source of electricity.
• BioMass includes agricultural waste or specially grown ‘energy crops’ which are used as fuel.
• BioGas is used in millions of households for lighting and cooking purposes.
• Landfill gas systems capture and burn methane gas released from decomposed waste to generate electricity.

Uses And Significance
Sustainable alternatives and green energy resources account for almost 16% of global energy consumption today and are growing steadily. Energy generating projects range from large scale power plants to small projects in remote, rural areas. Renewable energy can help in providing energy security, increase energy efficiency and promote economic growth in developing countries. Renewable energy can be used to replace conventional fuels for:

• Power generation
• Heating water or surface
• Renewable bio-fuels for transport

The Need For Alternative Energy Resources
Clean energy resources utilize the earth’s natural energy flows, thereby causing minimum negative environmental impact. Developing green energy sources primarily aims at generating power while creating minimal waste and pollution. Conventional methods of generating electricity involve the combustion of fossil fuels which causes air pollution and severe environmental damage.

The globally changing economic and environmental conditions have propelled nations and organizations to realign their strategies and work towards a low carbon existence. The primary goal of developing and promoting alternative, renewable sources of energy is to reduce energy costs and greenhouse gas emissions.