By Prof. Dr. Salwan Obaid Waheed Khafaji
First of all, the development of renewable energy and environmental science are closely related fields with a common objective: solving the urgent environmental issues of our day. The motivations behind the development of renewable energy and how it relates to environmental science are examined in this essay. We can recognize the significance of this paradigm shift in the global energy landscape by comprehending the main forces behind the development of renewable energy and how they relate to environmental science.
Based on this, let us discuss several aspects within this topic; they are:

1. Climate Change Mitigation: The pressing need to reduce climate change is one of the main factors propelling the development of renewable energy. Significant volumes of greenhouse gases are released during the burning of fossil fuels to produce energy, which causes climate instability and global warming as shown in Fig 1. Because they drastically lower carbon emissions, renewable energy sources like solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal power provide a more sustainable and clean option. Understanding how greenhouse gases affect the climate system is made possible by environmental science, which emphasizes how important it is to switch to renewable energy sources.
2. Energy Security and Independence: The need for energy security and independence is another driving force behind the development of renewable energy. Due to their heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels, many nations are vulnerable to fluctuations in price as well as geopolitical unrest. Reducing reliance on limited resources and geopolitical uncertainties can be achieved by nations through the diversification of their energy portfolio with renewable sources. When evaluating how energy extraction, transportation, and consumption affect the environment, environmental science is essential in emphasizing the need for locally accessible and sustainable energy sources.
3. Environmental Issues and the Maintenance of Ecosystems:
The push for renewable energy has been fueled by the negative environmental effects of conventional energy sources. The extraction of fossil fuels causes ecosystem disruption, pollution of waterways, and destruction of habitats as shown in Fig. 2. On the other hand, renewable energy technologies can be made to have as little of an impact as possible on natural habitats and have a much smaller ecological footprint. Environmental science directs the creation of sustainable energy solutions that protect ecosystems and biodiversity by providing the information and instruments needed to evaluate the environmental effects of energy productio4. Technological Development and Cost Competitiveness: The growing acceptance of renewable energy technologies is largely attributable to their advancements. Novel approaches have been developed through research and development, increasing the efficiency and cost-competitiveness of renewable energy compared to conventional sources. Environmental science is a key driver of technological advancements in renewable energy, working in tandem with engineering and other scientific disciplines.
5. Benefits to Public Health: The development of renewable energy has major advantages for public health. When fossil fuels are burned, dangerous pollutants are released into the atmosphere, which aggravates air pollution and related health issues. Making the switch to renewable energy sources improves public health outcomes by lowering air pollution and improving air quality. Environmental science strengthens the case for switching to cleaner energy sources by illuminating the connections between energy decisions, air quality, and human health.
6. Economic Opportunities and Job Creation: There are a lot of financial opportunities in the renewable energy industry. Investments in renewable energy initiatives promote technological innovation, job creation, and economic expansion. The solar, wind, and hydro industries grow as a result of the growing demand for renewable energy technologies. This growth draws investments and creates job opportunities. The economic benefits of developing renewable energy, such as increased tax income, lower healthcare costs, and job creation, can be measured with the aid of environmental science.
7. Sustainable Development and Resilience: The development of renewable energy is consistent with the ideas of resilience and sustainable development as shown in Fig. [3] . It offers a way to fulfill energy demands without jeopardizing the capacity of coming generations to fulfill their own. Societies can improve energy access, lessen their impact on the environment, and strengthen their resistance to the effects of climate change by embracing renewable energy. The foundation of knowledge for comprehending the interdependence of ecological systems, human welfare, and sustainable development is provided by environmental science, which highlights the role that renewable energy plays in accomplishing these objectives.In conclusion, a number of interrelated factors, such as the need to mitigate climate change, ensure energy security, address environmental concerns, improve public health, create economic opportunities, and support sustainable development, are driving the development of renewable energy. The basis for comprehending the effects of energy decisions on the environment is provided by environmental science, which also directs the creation of sustainable solutions. We can solve the pressing environmental issues we face and build a more resilient and sustainable future for future generations by embracing renewable energy and utilizing environmental science.
اعداد : د.سلوان عبيد وحيد - جامعة المستقبل