An IEA (International Energy Agency) report showcases the progress of electricity generation worldwide led by three vital renewable resources: hydropower, wind, and solar.
Also, world leaders have agreed on goals for biodiversity. That is to increase the number of areas protected.
Despite the delays caused by COVID-19, two international summits continue to find ways and provide solutions to climate change and environmental degradation.
These summits will challenge governments to meet energy needs while protecting ecological biodiversity. Both must be done simultaneously to combat climate change successfully.
One challenge that renewable projects face is the need for space, whether on water or land. Note that these projects require more space than fossil fuel infrastructure.
For example, wind and solar projects may require 50 to 100 times more space compared to gas plants or coal plants to generate enough or an equal amount of electrical power. In small countries with clean energy goals yet limited space, the development of renewable energy is at the cost of conservation and biodiversity.
At the center of these efforts is climate change. Clean energy and conservation development are vital weapons against global warming. Reducing the impact of the climate crisis requires the world to reduce GHGs (greenhouse gases), and at the same time, capture carbon in the air.
What governments must deal with is how to integrate biodiversity protection and renewable projects.
Canadian Hydro Beyond, together with financial institutions, governments, and NGOs, work together to address this dilemma and provide a pathway for renewable energy growth, protecting biodiversity at the same time.
Though the path towards success may be rough, the hydropower industry has planned a future for biodiversity and clean energy to coexist. Not only is the goal achievable, but it is also necessary to fight climate change globally.
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Hydroelectric Power Sustainability Guidelines