There’s a lot of controversy surrounding the argument of Global Warming and Climate Change relative to Carbon Emissions, and especially in relation to Energy Production.
A lot of proponents of Coal, Gas, and Nuclear Energy will deny the effects of those carbon emissions - despite droves of scientific evidence. However, while there is likely truth in the facts presented by the science community thus far, the concept that our negative impacts from dirty energy production is some far-off enemy that is slowly crawling our way, is a major distraction from what is more important; The pressing issue that is all too often overlooked in the shadow of the Climate Change argument is the damage we’re causing right here, right now… in our own backyard. Local air and water quality is suffering, and it is affecting our health in the present. This impact is well documented and regarded by many as an undeniable fact.
The focal point of the “Clean vs. Dirty” Energy discussion needs a paradigm shift, from the argument over what may or may not happen in the future, to acknowledging the impact that is currently measurable on a local scale - and, that while Clean Energy alone won’t solve the problem, it can make a significant contribution, effective immediately upon implementation. If we’re doing what’s right for our air and water quality today, then we won’t have to worry about larger impacts on the environment tomorrow...
We can all start doing our part by switching to Clean Solar Energy. While coal releases over 2 pounds of C02 per kilowatt hour of energy produced, an average Solar Energy System will reduce enough C02 to equal the effect of planting roughly 1,500 trees over 25 years.
Who wouldn't feel good about that?