Social Scientist Writer
Renewable energy has been gaining popularity across the globe as of late. It is the fastest-growing energy source in the United States and made up nearly 20% of utility-scale electricity generated in the United States in 2020. Renewable energy sources are generated from resources that naturally replenish over time, which means they are not finite. …
Natural gas is one of the fastest-growing energy sources. In 2020, natural gas was the largest source of energy generation in the United States. Nearly 50% of homes in the United States use natural gas for space heating and water heating. Natural gas continues to gain popularity as it is cleaner, less expensive, and more …
Invasive species are plants, animals, insects, or pathogens that can cause significant ecological, societal, or economic harm when introduced to a new environment where they are not native. Invasive species introduction into new areas can be accidental (e.g. via ships, humans, or wind) or intentional (e.g. by humans). Each year, non-native species cause over 100 billion …
Natural gas and propane are eco-friendly fuels with several advantages. They are commonly used for heating purposes, fueling vehicles, and cooking, among other things. There is often a misconception that natural gas and propane are the same. However, there are several differences between the two gases, such as how they are formed, captured, stored, and …
For thousands of years, our ancestors lived off the grid until technology advanced and society became tied to public utilities. Now, in modern times, living off the grid has become a popular lifestyle choice. Living off the grid has gained much momentum recently because of the rising cost of electricity, technological advancements, and the availability of alternative …
Our transportation choices impact the environment. Personal vehicles (e.g. cars, pickup trucks, minivans, and sport utility vehicles) are a major contributor to climate change and impact air quality. While driving a car is a necessity for most people, there are things you can do to reduce pollution from your vehicle. The most effective way to reduce your …
Climate change has become one of the most pressing global issues. It is well-known that humans are the primary driver of climate change through our actions and activities, such as the burning of fossil fuels for energy, manufacturing, and more. Climate change has already impacted ecosystems, economies, and communities around the world. While tackling climate …
Terms like carbon footprint and ecological footprint gained popularity in the 90s as we became more conscious of our environmental impact. A carbon footprint measures emissions that contribute to climate change, while an ecological footprint measures the use of space and its impact on the ecosystem. Carbon footprint calculators are an educational tool that can …
Plastic is the most prevalent type of marine debris found in our oceans. It includes a range of synthetic or semi-synthetic materials that contain polymers. Plastics gained popularity because of their flexibility and how convenient they are to use. Plastics were thought to solve the waste problem because they are recyclable and reusable. However, while …
Marine pollution is a growing problem and concern. The majority of the pollution originates from human activities along coastlines and inland. Pollution of coastal environments can limit our ability to use beaches for economic and recreational purposes. Pollution degrades and destroys coastal environments, and a polluted beach can also be a severe health risk and …