Energy and the Environment

The health of the world’s environment has never before featured so prominently in world news. As the reality of climate change becomes increasingly apparent, and less of a subject for debate, people are making eco-friendly changes to their lifestyles. Television documentaries in particular have influenced and inspired changes to peoples’ attitudes towards waste and energy; David Attenborough’s ‘Blue Planet’ continues to be widely discussed, months after its first transmission on the BBC. Environmental awareness is high and consumer choice is leading businesses to improve their environmental image.

Ecologically Sourced?

The root source of energy is central to the environmental debate. The use of fossil fuels is in decline, with more efficient engines and electric cars coming into widespread consumer usage. The UAE – a country almost literally built on oil – is adapting to ensure it continues to flourish in a post-oil age. Now, the search for low-carbon (or even carbon neutral) fuel sources is on, as governments around the world introduce initiatives to promote the use of sustainable energy.

Eco Energy and Investment Markets

People are changing their investment strategies in response to the environment. Whereas in years gone by the coal and oil industries enjoyed huge proportions of the energy market, new sources of energy are now gaining prominence; investors now speculate on what the future of the energy sector will look like. With so many different types of energy plant emerging, it is somewhat difficult to view this future with any real clarity.

However, as the energy sector continues to develop and adapt, markets quickly change in response to this. This is leading to greater volatility in some stocks and shares investment options.

Prices

New power plants require significant investment before any energy is actually produced. However government grants and subsidies often support this process. This means that although renewable energy production is inflating the cost of wholesale energy distribution, prices remain affordable. In the long run, renewable energy will reduce these prices.

The Future?

Solar? Wind? Geothermal? Hydrogen-cell? Nuclear? There are many different forms of renewable energy. Whilst it is difficult to see exactly what the future of energy production will look like, it will depend on creating an energy infrastructure that is safe, reliable and future-proof.

Global companies such as Weir support the development of efficient energy production. Such businesses are fundamental to creating an energy network that is fit for the future. The use of cutting-edge technology and techniques is vital for enabling increased outputs in the future, and to ensure energy production remains as safe and efficient as possible. Due to the scale of change within the industry, and levels of government investment, the fast implementation of a world-class network is vital.

The momentum behind positive environmental change is being seen on all scales – from individuals changing their shopping and waste habits to whole countries agreeing to form an environmental alliance. However, much of this change is dependent on an eco-friendly energy network.

Have you changed your lifestyle in response to environmental awareness? Will environmental change happen quickly enough?

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