Sustainable energy is a term sometimes used interchangeably with renewable energy, but it is perhaps more than just that. Sustainable energy can mean, in the first instance, using energy wisely and not wastefully. This is perhaps where energy efficiency measures come into play as these can considerably decrease the amount of power we use and thus the environmental impact of our modern lifestyles. Take a look at our energy saving tips page for some simple ideas to increase your energy efficiency in the home.
Sustainable energy is, however, also about the actual energy resources. To be sustainable they should not have an overall negative impact on the environment, i.e. any emissions or waste produced in the generation of the energy source should at least be cancelled out by its use. For example, Biomass is a form of renewable energy and one of the ways this is used is for wood-burning stoves and boilers. In order to be a sustainable energy source it is important that the wood used comes from a sustainable source, i.e. that the trees are replanted and are ideally of a fast-growing variety. Not only is the fuel itself then renewed, but the carbon emissions produced in the burning of the wood are cancelled out by the carbon dioxide absorbed by the growing trees.
Other types of renewable energy are also sustainable. Visit our sitemap for listings of all our renewable energy pages
