Environmental analysis

Introduction

The world depends on fossil fuels as a driver of economic growth. Meanwhile, the dependence on fossil fuel continues to impose massive economic, social and environmental costs. The three main impacts define the environmental issue. However, the fossil fuels remain the primary energy source, despite these impacts. This paper discusses the negative impact of fossil fuel and provides reasons for its continued use.

Negative economic and social impacts of fossil use

Oil drives economic growth. The major sources of supply are found in the Middle-east countries that have huge reserves of oil and natural gas. Many other countries are dependent on these countries for constant supply of these fuels.  The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) is formed by countries such as Iraq, Iran, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and UAE. According to the Energy Information Administration (EIA), the countries are responsible for approximately 40% of the world’s oil production and possess the majority of the world’s oil reserves.  (Cornea & Dima, 2010) The oil producers monitor and adjust the volume and prices of oil consumed. The changes in oil prices and volumes of supply, therefore, cause worldwide price fluctuations.  The fluctuation of prices or cyclic recession is detrimental to economic growth.  Oil producing countries are also characterized by social unrest and political instability from time to time.

The adverse effect is had on our environment

The use of fossil fuel has led to serious environmental issues such as air pollution. Fossil fuels release nitrogen dioxide, carbon dioxide, and carbon monoxide and sulphur dioxide. When burnt they have severe consequences on the habitats. Additionally, they are a form of non-renewable sources of energy.  Once they are fully used, they will be no longer available as they are derived from pre-historic fossils.  They are depleting at an alarming rate, and their sources are limited.

Today, fossil fuels are being extracted at an exorbitant rate to meet the gap between supply and demand and may be depleted in the next number of years. Also, the combustion of fossil fuel is a leading contributor to global warming. Global warming has brought looming environmental and human catastrophe that inflicts massive damage. As fossil fuels are needed in huge reserve, they are required to be transported through ships, trucks, trains or other large vessels.  (Wesolowski, 2004) The leaks that occur in oil tankers or ship pose a hazard to aquatic life. The crude oil contains toxic substances that have a serious impact on aquatic life as it lessens the oxygen content of water.

The negative effects on human health produced from the pollution created

The pollution that results from burning of fossil fuels by vehicles and coal powered power plants has a serious impact on health.  Pollution related diseases affect people’s quality of life. They range from mild to severe and result in chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder, asthma and lung cancer. Long-term exposure increases respiratory infections in the general population.

Why fossil fuels have continued to remain as the primary energy source despite these impacts

The consumption of fossil fuels continues despite the negative impacts associated with its use.  Despite the necessity to rely on alternative sources of energy, there are various factors that make fossil fuel the most viable choice. (Tester, 2005)  First, fossil fuel is easily available. It can be produced in large amounts compared to other sources of energy.  Secondly, fossil fuel is the highest producer of Calorific Value in terms of energy. Thirdly, fossil fuels are made of molecules of carbon, and hydrogen that makes them very stable compared to other types of energy sources.  They can also be easily transported and stored. They are also economical in terms of costs unlike another alternative like solar power whose initial investment costs are too high.

References

Tester J. (2005) Sustainable Energy: Choosing Among Options MIT Press

Wesolowski, D. J. (2004). Long-Term Energy Solutions: The Truth Behind the Silent Lie. Physics Today, 57(11), 14.

Cornea, T. M., & Dima, M. (2010). The Petroleum Industry and Climate Issues. Petroleum - Gas Technical Series, 62(3B), 93-100

Sherry Roberts is the author of this paper. A senior editor at MeldaResearch.Com in custom speech writing companies services. If you need a similar paper you can place your order from affordable term papers services.