The problems that the environment faces nowadays are the overexploitation of natural resources apart from rapid urbanization and overpopulation. The advancement of technology and industrial development may or may not help mitigate the negative effects on the environment. Good thing, there are green technologies that are directed towards sustainability. Here are the five greatest green technologies for a sustainable future.
- Green Architecture
Green architecture both pertains to building construction and design. The building materials are not the only ones that should be considered for it to be a green architecture, but the site location as well. The goal of green architecture is to build an energy-efficient and environmentally friendly structure. The implementation of green design helps minimize the harmful effects of industrialization on the environment and human health.
To achieve this in all construction projects, choosing construction practices and eco-friendly building materials are just some ways. However, it may seem to be a simple task, but it is a challenge for some architects and engineers. One of the reasons why it is a challenge to implement is because they are used with traditional practices. Secondly, green material used for construction is also costly. To ensure sustainability, site surveys, consultations, plan modifications, etc., are done.
- Waste-Sourced Biofuel / Pyrolysis
Pyrolysis is considered one of the greatest green technologies because it can turn non-biodegradable materials into biofuel. The process of pyrolysis involves a minimal carbon footprint compared to traditional ethanol production. The countries Australia, UK, and Canada first started waste-sourced biofuel. This green technology aims to encourage each of the countries to participate in the activity of turning garbage into cleaner biofuel.
The creation of biofuel is already a beneficial aspect of this process, but it still has other importance. This process is the most effective waste plastic management because of the significant waste reduction going to the landfills. The long-term effect of pyrolysis is directed towards the betterment of the environment.
- Electric Automobiles
When you would talk about green technology, most of us would usually link it with the invention of electric cars. One of the contributors to carbon emissions is vehicles. That’s why investing in electric automobiles greatly helps the environment. Operating it requires no gas, making it convenient and more practical. However, one of its downsides is that the initial investment to own it is expensive.
If you don’t have a solar-powered car, you need to use the electricity to charge it, which is not free. It is one of the greatest green technologies for a sustainable future because it aims to zero out carbon emissions from transportation. There has been positive feedback about its use from different countries. As of the moment, there is an increasing demand for this kind of car.
- Waste-To-Energy
This is generating energy in the form of electricity or heat from treated waste. The final product is a combustible fuel commodity such as methanol, methane, ethanol, and other synthetic fuels. The waste to energy invention is considered as one of the greatest green technologies because it preserves the use of fossil fuels.
The reverse electro dialysis and microbial fuel cells are the two main processes that enable converting waste to energy. This invention is a great way to escalate the issues with scarce resources, especially with fossil fuels. As of the moment, this process is being practiced by progressive countries. One of the countries that lead this green technology is Sweden.
- Artificial Photosynthesis
Artificial photosynthesis makes use of biomimicry or replicating the process, system, or biochemical reaction of photosynthesis. It aims to reproduce water, sunlight, and carbon dioxide into oxygen and carbohydrates. When the process is successful, it can reduce the carbon dioxide level in the atmosphere. It may also lead to the production of renewable energy.
This process may be artificial, but it can benefit humans and the environment. Artificial photosynthesis can produce two types of fuel: hydrogen and electricity. This is considered innovation to green technology because creating renewable energy doesn’t make harmful by-products.
Final Thoughts
The help of green technology is the key to addressing environmental problems. Providers such as 4Change Energy are already offering green and renewable energy plans to help you save the environment and lower your power bill. Some of the environmental problems that need to be addressed immediately are food scarcity, waste management, climate change, overuse of fossil fuel, and other environmental degradation forms. Through green technology, these environmental issues can be resolved.