Energy, electricity and the environment

Energy conversion is a major cause of environmental damage and electricity generation as one of the main forms of energy conversion, plays a substantial part in that damage. The authors discuss the environmental effects of energy conversion, with particular reference to electricity. The major areas of concern are greenhouse warming, caused to a large extent by carbon dioxide and other gases emitted during fossil fuel combustion; air pollution, also arising from combustion, including acid rain and photochemical smog; and ionising radiation from nuclear power generation, in particular waste disposal, accidents, and possible links with nuclear weapons. There is no simple or single remedy for this environmental damage. Energy efficiency and environmental costing are suggested as key issues to be considered, and the need for international agreements on global and long-term problems is emphasised.