Global Renewable Energy & Corporate Sustainability Initiatives
Wind Power Potential & Global Impact
In 2015, wind power was the largest source of new capacity globally. The world’s wind power capacity could potentially cover all global energy consumption. It has doubled in the last three years, now accounting for 2% of world electricity production and reaching 20% in some countries.
Environmental Benefits of Wind Energy
Wind power plants reduce emissions by displacing more polluting facilities. They contribute to a 14% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Unlike nuclear, coal, or gas-fired plants that require water for cooling (a scarce resource), wind generation uses no water. Wind is an inexhaustible resource as long as the sun shines and winds blow. Favorable conditions for wind power exist in the EU, US, and China.
Global Leaders in Solar PV Power
In 2015, China had the largest solar capacity, followed by Germany, Japan, and the US. China is also the largest producer and installer of PV panels, with 43,500 MW installed capacity. Leading companies include:
- First Solar (US) – known for thin-film technology
- Suntech (China) – leading producer in 2010
- JA Solar (China) – second-largest PV producer in 2010
- LDK Solar (China)
- SolarWorld (Germany)
Top Countries in Wind Power Generation
The leading countries in wind power generation are China, the US, Germany, India, and Spain.
Offshore Wind Power Leaders
Key leaders in offshore wind power include the UK, Belgium, and Germany.
Challenges in Wind Power Expansion
Intermittency of Wind Energy
Wind is present everywhere, but there can be days with no or little wind. This necessitates backup power sources. Overproduction can also be a challenge, as grid systems have limits on the amount of energy they can receive. Production rises significantly when wind speeds reach 19 m/s. A solution is to strategically place wind farms in consistently windy areas.
Cost Competitiveness of Wind Power
The price of wind power, especially for offshore installations, has become more competitive and now competes with natural gas. However, it remains more expensive than traditional fossil fuels. The solution lies in developing bigger and more efficient wind turbines.
Site Selection & Wind Speed Requirements
Suitable locations are crucial, as consistent wind speed is vital for viable wind power generation. Solutions include offshore wind farms and high-altitude sites.
Aesthetic Concerns & Wildlife Impact
Challenges include aesthetic concerns and potential animal collisions.
Understanding Sustainable Development
The history of sustainable development traces back to the 1972 Stockholm Conference on the Human Environment. Following this, UNEP emphasized considering social, economic, and environmental aspects together. This led to Agenda 21, promoting the principle of “think globally, act locally.” Over 170 countries agreed to collaborate towards sustainable development.
Sustainable development is a form of development that ensures the needs of the present without compromising the capacity of future generations to meet their own needs. It is a goal, but people often resist changing environmentally damaging lifestyles if it means paying more for necessities or luxury items. Sustainable development is a journey and a process that involves the preservation of crucial environments and incurs a duty towards social justice.
Companies Leading in Sustainability Initiatives
Many companies are actively implementing sustainable policies and addressing environmental challenges. Examples include Mester Grønn, Traidcraft, Interface, Patagonia, and Tesla, as well as wind power firms like Gamesa and Vestas, and solar firms such as First Solar and REC Silicon.
Mester Grønn: Fair Trade & Eco-Friendly Practices
Mester Grønn, one of Norway’s largest sellers of Fairtrade products (such as roses and flowers), minimizes its environmental impact through various initiatives. They utilize geothermal heat pumps and other technologies to reduce energy consumption. Their management also travels to Africa to ensure ethical and legitimate production practices. Furthermore, the flowers they sell are wrapped in recycled paper.
Patagonia: Corporate Social Responsibility Champion
Patagonia is widely recognized for its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts. They offer clothing repair services, provide self-certified Fairtrade clothing, and actively work to reduce their emissions.
Storebrand: A Global Leader in Sustainable Business
The Norwegian insurance company Storebrand was ranked second by Forbes among the most sustainable companies globally. Their CEO’s salary is only 12 times that of the average employee, a stark contrast to some companies where the ratio can be 115 times higher. Storebrand maintains a transparent management structure and continuously strives to reduce its environmental impact.