Creation Covenant Alliance

OpEd: Harnessing the Planet’s Resources for Renewable Energy

This election year, critical issues dominate concerns: energy reliability, human rights, pollution, wildlife loss, and economic impacts.
Mining The Planet For Renewable Energy – OpEd – Eurasia Review
Reliable Energy, Human Rights, Land Impacts, Air and Water Pollution, Lost Wildlife Ignored

This election year, several critical issues dominate voter concerns: illegal immigration, rising crime, and unprecedented prices for essentials like food, clothing, and housing.

Other pivotal concerns include parental roles in education and child welfare, and threats to democracy posed by unelected bureaucrats who use their powers to control lives and silence opposition.

Another crucial issue is control over energy – the lifeblood of our civilization, jobs, health, and prosperity.

Questions arise: Will America shut down coal, gas, and nuclear electricity generation before securing reliable replacements? Will we have electricity when we need it, or only when it’s available? And what will families pay for that electricity and other necessities?

We are told a significant energy transformation is necessary to avert a “climate crisis.” However, this crisis is often rooted in computer models and politicized science, rather than actual temperature and weather records.

In 2023, wind and solar power generated only 2.7% of the world’s primary energy, while 81.5% came from fossil fuels. Though North America and Europe have reduced fossil fuel consumption by nearly half since 1965, global emissions have risen as developing countries like China and India continue to utilize minimal pollution controls.

A shift to an all-electric economy with no fossil fuels could require millions of acres of land for wind turbines, solar panels, and other infrastructure, raising concerns about spontaneous battery fires and land impacts.

Moreover, it’s uncertain whether the planet has enough accessible metal and mineral deposits to manufacture all the required equipment for this transformation. The environmental and human rights impacts of mining for these materials are significant.

For instance, producing sufficient copper for President Biden’s offshore wind plan would involve extracting and processing nearly 25 million tons of ore. However, mining in the U.S. is heavily restricted, adding to the challenge.

Recent studies suggest mining companies may struggle to produce enough copper for electric vehicles and wind and solar power, let alone a full energy transformation.

A 2022 International Energy Agency (IEA) report highlights the immense demand for essential metals and minerals in energy transitions. It projects that by 2040, the demand for materials like aluminum, copper, and lithium could increase by 5 to 50 times current global requirements.

The IEA identifies several challenges, including finding producible deposits, managing pollution and waste, and ensuring worker safety and human rights.

The biggest wind energy project in the USA will soon cover 1,600 square miles of New Mexico to generate 3,500 MW about 30% of the year. In contrast, the Palo Verde nuclear plant in Arizona generates 4,200 MW from 6 square miles almost continuously.

A Bloomberg research team estimates that stopping global warming by 2050 will require at least $200 trillion, with some estimates reaching $275 trillion.

State and local governments need to enact laws requiring utilities to explain how they will generate replacement power before shutting down existing plants. They should also demand full details on the environmental and human rights costs of sourcing raw materials.

America’s jobs, health, and living standards depend on making informed, wise decisions in this regard.

Original Story at www.eurasiareview.com

Trending News

Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



November 19, 2024