Authors: Grace Yu; Sources: United Nations, US EIA, Montana Renewables, Unsplash

Renewable Energy

INTRODUCTION

Using renewable energy is a good way to lower greenhouse gas emissions since it is more sustainable.

“Renewable energy is energy derived from natural sources that are replenished at a higher rate than they are consumed. Sunlight and wind, for example, are such sources that are constantly being replenished. Renewable energy sources are plentiful and all around us.” — United Nations

 

ACTIVITY

Pinwheel Wind Energy

Materials: Square piece of paper, pencil, pin, dowel, beads, instruction manual (included below) // Duration: 10 minutes

  • Pass out instruction handouts to students

  • Give students all necessary supplies to make the pinwheels

  • Tell students to put the pinwheels out in the wind or to blow on them

  • Explain how the pinwheel is essentially a mini version of a wind turbine that generates power in the same way

LESSON

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the five main types of renewable energy are solar, wind, geothermal, biomass, and hydropower. Each one has its pros and cons, but utilizing any one of the methods reduces greenhouse gas emission and brings long-term sustainability to the planet.

 
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