Each year, greenhouse gases and aerosols released into the atmosphere contribute to the Earth’s warming temperatures. This compounds other issues, such as drought and famine, which are also making life more difficult for many people today.
While this is not the desired outcome for many reasons pollution, droughts, and hunger are just some of the issues that come with warmer temperatures there are some positive impacts that have arisen from our dependence on fossil fuels.
By reducing the need for fossil fuel power generation and lowering emissions of harmful gases like nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, and carbon dioxide, clean energy at your house improves your overall health.
1. Clean Energy Promotes Healthier Lungs
The lungs are one of the most important organs of the body. However, that doesn’t mean they are always optimal. As the air we breathe is full of harmful substances like dust, smoke and carbon dioxide, and various chemicals it can be hard to breathe easily. Many people consider carbon dioxide the primary culprit in global warming predictions. That’s because it’s the main gas that is emitted when fossil fuels are burned, and it makes up over 80% of our planet’s atmosphere. Most people have experienced some sort of respiratory problem in their life due to poor health or other factors.
2. Clean Energy Improves Health for Children
The global population is expected to grow by 2.3 billion people between now and 2050, which is a lot of mouths to feed. A study from the University of Oxford found that reductions in fossil fuel use would reduce the number of children under 5 who die each year by about 250,000. This would save about $4 billion in healthcare costs by 2050.
3. Clean Energy Protects You From Ozone
Ozone has two forms. Ground level or “bad” ozone is created when gas emitted from vehicles, power plants, and refineries that causes air pollution combines with sunlight. This can make it harder to breathe and cause your eyes to water. Airborne or “good” ozone is a naturally occurring chemical in the stratosphere that protects us from harmful ultraviolet radiation.
4. Clean Energy Protects You From Bacteria
Staphylococcus was first isolated in the 1970s. Today, it accounts for 20% of the time Americans spend in hospitals. This is because of rapid changes in lifestyle and conditions which have led to our increased risk of getting sick. Having access to clean energy at your house means less time is spent cleaning and disinfecting harmful bacteria-causing infections. This allows you to spend more time with your family as well as reduce medical expenses and subsequent prescription costs.
As we wind up this article on the 4 ways clean energy benefits your overall health, it’s important to note that the effects of climate change are already being felt. Your best defense is to make smart choices about improving the efficiency of your home and seeking cleaner sources of energy.
The EPA works with cities across the country that are committed to improving their citizens’ quality of life by using clean energy products. It’s time you consider doing the same.