Question

What are the environmental consequences of using fossil fuels? Suggest the steps to minimize the pollution caused by various sources of energy including non-conventional sources of energy.

Answer 1

Fossil Fuel:

The substances which act as energy sources are known as fuels. The buried organic matters which can be converted to crude oil, coal, natural gas, or any heavy oils by applying pressure and heat to the earth’s crust over hundreds of years are known as fossil fuels.

Consequences of using fossil fuels:

Some consequences are provided below:

1. The burning of fossil fuels will result in the accumulation of smog in big cities which will result in decreased visibility.
2. Air pollution leads to health hazards to humans and animals.
3. Global warming will result due to the increase in the level of Carbon-di-oxide.
4. Sulfur oxides cause acid rain.

Non-conventional sources of energy:

Non-conventional sources of energy are also known as renewable sources of energy. They are also known as renewable sources of energy and are not responsible for the cause of pollution.

Some non-conventional sources of energy are as follows:

1. Solar energy
2. Wind energy
3. Biomass

Steps to minimize the pollution caused by various sources of energy

1. The use of vehicles like electric bikes and bi-cycle can reduce air pollution.
2. Use of public transport.
3. Afforestation.
4. Adopting 3 R’s policy- reduce, reuse, and recycle.

Therefore, a natural fuel such as coal or gas, formed in the geological past from the remains of living organisms is a fossil fuel.