Conventional vs Non-Conventional Energy: Key Differences and Impacts

Posted on Oct 22, 2026 in Basque Studies

Difference between Conventional and Non-Conventional Sources of Energy

Examples:

• Conventional: Coal, Oil, Natural Gas
• Non-Conventional: Solar, Wind, Hydropower, Biomass, Geothermal

(B) Explain Global Warming and Effects on Climate Change

Global warming is the gradual increase in the Earth’s average temperature mainly due to the increased concentration of greenhouse gases.

Since the Industrial Revolution, burning of coal, oil and natural gas has increased CO₂ emissions and intensified the greenhouse effect.

Effects

• 1) Rise in sea level due to melting of glaciers and polar ice.
• 2) Extreme weather events such as heat waves, storms and droughts.
• 3) Changes in rainfall and precipitation patterns.
• 4) Disruption of ecosystems and biodiversity.
• 5) Adverse effects on agriculture and food production.
• 6) Health problems such as heat-related illnesses and respiratory problems.

(C) Explain Biogas Plant: Construction and Working

Construction

A biogas plant mainly consists of:

1. Mixing tank
2. Inlet pipe
3. Anaerobic digester
4. Gas holder/dome
5. Outlet chamber
6. Slurry collection tank

Working

1. Cow dung or organic waste is mixed with water in the mixing tank.
2. The mixture enters the anaerobic digester through the inlet.
3. In the absence of oxygen, microorganisms decompose the organic matter.
4. This process produces biogas, mainly containing methane and carbon dioxide.
5. The gas collects in the gas holder and is supplied through a pipe for cooking or heating.
6. The digested slurry comes out through the outlet and can be used as organic manure.

Flow: Organic waste + Water → Digester → Anaerobic digestion → Biogas + Slurry

i) Explain Determinants of Sustainable Development

Sustainable development means meeting the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. It requires a balance between economic, social and environmental aspects.

Major Determinants

1. Environmental Protection: Conservation of natural resources, reduction of pollution and protection of ecosystems are essential.
2. Social Equity and Inclusion: Development should provide equal access to education, healthcare, resources and opportunities.
3. Economic Growth and Prosperity: Economic growth should improve living standards while considering social and environmental impacts.
4. Conservation of Biodiversity: Protection of biodiversity supports ecosystem services and food security.
5. Responsible Consumption and Production: Efficient use of resources, recycling and reduction of waste help in sustainable development.
6. Good Governance and Institutions: Transparent, accountable institutions and proper laws are necessary for effective implementation.
7. Education and Awareness: Education creates awareness and encourages people to adopt sustainable practices.
8. Technology and Innovation: Clean technologies, renewable energy and resource-efficient methods support sustainability.
9. Partnerships and Collaboration: Governments, industries, NGOs and communities must work together.
10. Climate Action: Reduction of greenhouse gases, renewable energy and climate adaptation are important for sustainable development.

ii) Explain Environment and Poverty

Environment and poverty are closely interconnected. Poor communities often depend heavily on natural resources for their livelihood, while environmental degradation can further increase poverty.

Relationship between Environment and Poverty

1. Natural Resource Dependence: Poor people depend on agriculture, fishing and forestry. Depletion of these resources reduces their income.
2. Climate Change: Floods, droughts, extreme weather and changing rainfall affect poor communities more severely.
3. Clean Water and Sanitation: Lack of clean water and sanitation causes diseases and reduces quality of life.
4. Deforestation and Land Degradation: Unsustainable use of forests, land and water to meet immediate needs can cause long-term environmental damage.
5. Environmental Health Hazards: Poor communities may be exposed to polluted air, improper waste disposal and toxic substances.
6. Displacement and Migration: Environmental degradation and natural disasters may force people to leave their homes.
7. Access to Clean Energy: Lack of affordable clean energy limits economic development, education and healthcare.
8. Conservation and Livelihoods: Conservation measures may sometimes conflict with the livelihood needs of poor communities.

Conclusion: Sustainable development, inclusive policies, community participation, renewable energy and sustainable agriculture can help reduce poverty while protecting the environment.

(B) i) Linkages among Sustainable Development

Sustainable development is based on the interconnection of social, economic and environmental pillars, commonly called the Triple Bottom Line.

Important Linkages

1. Poverty Alleviation and Economic Growth: Economic development creates jobs and income, which helps reduce poverty.
2. Social Equity and Economic Growth: Education, healthcare and basic services create a healthier and more productive population.
3. Environmental Conservation and Economic Growth: Conservation of natural resources supports sustainable agriculture, ecotourism and ecosystem services.
4. Climate Action and Economic Growth: Low-carbon development promotes innovation, renewable energy and green jobs.
5. Social Equity and Environmental Conservation: Involving marginalized communities in conservation leads to better environmental protection.
6. Education and Social Equity: Education improves skills, employment opportunities and participation in society.
7. Gender Equality and Sustainable Development: Empowering women and promoting gender equality support sustainable development.
8. Health and Sustainable Development: Better health improves productivity, while a healthy environment improves well-being.

Thus, social, economic and environmental development must be considered together for a balanced and sustainable future.

ii) Types of Agriculture and Challenges in Agriculture

Types of Agriculture

1. Subsistence Agriculture: Crops and livestock are mainly produced for the farmer’s own consumption, with little surplus for sale.
2. Commercial Agriculture: Crops and livestock are produced mainly for sale in local, national or international markets.
3. Intensive Agriculture: It uses high inputs such as fertilizers, pesticides and machinery to obtain high production from limited land.
4. Extensive Agriculture: It involves large-scale farming over vast areas with relatively lower inputs per unit of land.

Challenges in Agriculture

1. Food Security: Providing sufficient food for the growing population.
2. Sustainable Practices: Preventing soil degradation, water depletion and habitat destruction.
3. Climate Change: Changing weather patterns affect crops and livestock.
4. Land Use: Balancing agricultural requirements with conservation and urbanization.

Conclusion: Sustainable agricultural practices are necessary to conserve natural resources, protect ecosystems and meet present and future food requirements.