We have finalised our topic of Future Planning and moved into a 'Managing the Environment' unit which aims to teach us all about the natural world around us- more specifically looking at the environment and how it is impacted by human activities, spending time researching things like resources, Three Waters, and calculating our ecological footprint. At the moment we have been focusing on three main resources: Renewable, Non-renewable and services. The information below is from my brief research into Hydroelectric power, a form of renewable resource.
Hydro power is an alternative form of energy that generates power and electricity through the natural flow of water. It is a renewable source which means that it cannot be depleted- unlike fossil fuels which are non renewable and on which we currently rely. Hydroelectric plants utilise the natural flow of water and use it to turn turbines- the action of which then produces electricity and power.
However, all good things come in moderation, and hydroelectric power comes with certain restrictions, should the technology become normality. Water restrictions would have a more profound effect during the dry season, and moderation would need to be a concept more strongly enforced.
Like all other forms of renewable energy, installing the necessary facilities to create hydroelectric power would be pricey- but if the government can afford to bring in laws that protecting gorse bushes (SNA), they could afford to invest some interest into a sustainable future for the citizens of this country, by providing cleaner and more affordable energy.
All in all, hydroelectric power would put us on the path to solving many of the problems we face today- pollution being the main one. If we can invest some interest into figuring out a solution, and research how we can harness the natural flow of our waterways, the future could begin to look more sustainable.
Hi Lily
ReplyDeleteI like your thinking, you've brought up some interesting points, and you’ve articulated your ideas beautifully.
I agree with you. There are a few considerations that have to take into account if hydroelectric power becomes more mainstream. How do you think we could encourage people to use less water?
I’m mindful of how much water we use at our house, but I don’t think people in our cities give it much thought. I think everyone should have their own water tank. It might not provide water for the whole house but could be a supply source for things like washing cars or watering the garden. Surely, that would be a bit of saving.
A combination of solar and hydropower seems like an excellent solution to me. I also like the idea of hydro-cars. I think that could be a real game-changer.
It’s hard to imagine what the world will be like in ten years. But, if you had a magic wand, what would you like to see happen?