Introduction
Non-clean energy sources, such as coal, oil, and natural gas, have been the primary sources of energy in the United States for many years. While there has been a push towards renewable energy sources in recent years, non-clean energy still plays a significant role in the country’s energy consumption.
Statistics
According to the US Energy Information Administration (EIA), non-clean energy sources accounted for about 79% of the total energy consumption in the United States in 2020. This includes 19.3% from petroleum, 22.2% from natural gas, and 23.3% from coal.
Impact
The use of non-clean energy sources has significant environmental impacts, including air and water pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and habitat destruction. These effects can harm human health, wildlife, and ecosystems, leading to climate change and other environmental problems.
Transition to Clean Energy
There has been a growing movement towards clean energy sources, such as solar, wind, and hydropower, in the United States. Many states have set renewable energy targets and implemented policies to promote the use of clean energy. However, the transition away from non-clean energy sources is complex and will require significant investment and changes in infrastructure.
Conclusion
While the United States still relies heavily on non-clean energy sources, there is a growing awareness of the need to transition to cleaner, more sustainable energy sources. By investing in renewable energy and implementing policies to reduce reliance on non-clean energy, the US can help mitigate the environmental impacts of energy consumption and create a more sustainable future.
Kyle Whyte is a notable scholar and professor at the University of Michigan, holding positions such as the George Willis Pack Professor in the School for Environment and Sustainability and Professor of Philosophy. Specializing in environmental justice, his work critically examines climate policy and Indigenous peoples’ ethics, emphasizing the nexus between cooperative scientific endeavors and Indigenous justice. As an enrolled Citizen Potawatomi Nation member, he brings a vital perspective to his roles as a U.S. Science Envoy and member of the White House Environmental Justice Advisory Council. His influential research is supported by various prestigious organizations including the National Science Foundation, and disseminated through publications in high-impact journals. Kyle actively contributes to global Indigenous research methodologies and education, with affiliations to numerous institutes and societies dedicated to traditional knowledge and sustainability. Recognized for his academic and community engagement, Kyle has earned multiple awards and served in various visiting professorships. His efforts extend to leadership positions on boards and committees focused on environmental justice nationwide.