As global warming and pollution become more and more of a hot-button issue, more people than ever are aware of the dangers that face our environment. Here are just some of the environmental impacts of electricity consumption across the world.

Air Pollution

Most methods of producing energy generate some form of air pollution. This can negatively impact the health of people as well as the environment. In some major urban areas, such as Beijing and Los Angeles, you can actually see these effects in the form of smog. Late in 2015, Beijing issued a red alert after the city’s pollution levels grew to a number that was seven times higher than deemed safe by the World Health Organization.

Greenhouse Gases and Acid Rain

Most sources of energy, like coal and natural gas, release greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxide when they are burned. These gases become trapped in the Earth’s atmosphere, and many scientific experts believe that this is the main cause of global warming. These pollutants can also contaminate precipitation in the form of acid rain; which harms lakes, streams, trees, soil, and even man-made structures.

Waste Issues

Generating energy is not only a problem while it is being created, but also afterwards. Coal, for instance produces waste in the form of ash. This ash is usually brought to a nearby landfill, and contributes to overfill problems. Waste produced by nuclear energy also has its own set of storage challenges. This waste remains radioactive for thousands of years, which is why it needs to be stored in concrete structures deep underground. Failing to do so can cause cancer and genetic mutations in humans and animals alike.

Wildlife and Ecosystems

We have already discussed how ecosystems, water supplies, and wild animals can be harmed through things like acid rain and radioactive waste. Further proof of this is the fact that the Chernobyl disaster is still affecting local wildlife population, even 20 years after it happened. People don’t realize that physical structures can also harm and kill animals, even from clean energy sources. Birds and bats, for example, often fly into power lines and wind mills.

At Electro Industries, we are aware of the negative impact that energy creation can have on the environment. We also know that up to 20% of all electricity consumption goes to waste, which is why we make products specifically designed to reduce this number. Our power meters and submeters have helped businesses and utility providers around the world save money and energy for more than 40 years. Browse our selection of power monitoring equipment or give us a call at 866-928-7908 to learn more.