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 has made up nearly 20% of utility-scale electricity generated in the United States in 2020. Renewable sources of energy are generated from resources that naturally replenish over time, which means they are …
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 …
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. The idea of living off the grid has gained a lot of momentum recently because of the rising cost of electricity, …
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 car. The most effective way to …
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 impact on the environment. Carbon footprint is the measure of emissions that contribute to climate change, while ecological footprint focuses on measuring the use of space and its impact on the ecosystem. Carbon footprint calculators are …
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. Pollution of coastal environments can limit our ability to use beaches for economic and recreational purposes. The majority of the pollution originates from human activities along coastlines and inland. Pollution not only degrades and destroys coastal environments, but a polluted beach can also be a serious health …