General Assembly
Advancements in Alternative Energy Resources
Presently, a vast amount of energy production worldwide is dependent on non-renewable resources. A non-renewable resource is a natural resource that cannot be produced, re-grown, regenerated, or reused on a scale that can sustain its consumption rate. These resources often exist in a fixed amount, or are consumed much faster than nature can recreate them. Fossil fuel (such as coal, petroleum and natural gas) and nuclear power are examples of energy sources that are rapidly depleting as we consume them on a global scale. World powers, especially the United States, which has one of the largest consumption rates, are beginning to look towards alternate sources of energy.
Renewable resources such as:
-The movement of water (hydropower, including tidal power and ocean surface waves used for wave power)
-Wind (used for wind power)
-Geothermal heat (used for geothermal power)
-radiant energy (used for solar power)
are practically infinite and cannot be depleted, unlike their non-renewable counterparts, which are likely to run out if not used wisely. The issue of changing power sources has many factors, as it affects not only the environment but also trade relations, especially with countries who have a large oil-based economy. Countries that are oil or fossil fuel dependent would have to make many changes in order to incorporate more renewable energy. It affects their industry (such as producing fuel efficient cars) and also their relations with countries that trade for fossil fuels.