Solar Energy Power
While it is too late to undo the damage that has been done, it isn't too late to make better choices for the future. A great next step would be investment in solar energy. This can be done on both small and large scales. Governments can invest in this alternative energy source rather than depending on things such as nuclear energy that produce radioactive waste. On a smaller scale, individuals can switch to solar energy through things like solar panels, which can be attatched easily onto rooftops to provide electricity for homes, offices, or any other building.
There are two kinds of solar energy: active and passive. Active solar systems use electrical or mechanical devices to capture the sun's heat or light and convert it to another usable form of energy. An example of this would be photovoltaics, or solar panels (#16). Passive solar systems absorb heat from the sun and redistribute it in order to heat up or keep cool certain areas. An example of this would be operable windows, which are insulated and can be opened to let heat out or closed to keep heat in (#13). Both of these types of solar energy can be used to meet the needs of individuals and large groups of people. For instance, using solar energy to heat water can be useful in homes as well as large industries.
“'Solar photovoltaics have joined the ranks of lower-cost alternatives to new nuclear plants,' John O. Blackburn, a professor of economics at Duke University, in North Carolina, and Sam Cunningham, a graduate student, wrote in the paper, 'Solar and Nuclear Costs — The Historic Crossover.'" (#15)
While some might argue that solar energy is too expensive, the money countries would save in the long run far outweighs the initial cost. If spending more money upfront keeps radioactive material out of the ocean, then solar energy is well worth it. However, cost shouldn't be an issue anymore. Studies have now shown that nuclear energy costs have risen above the declining cost of solar energy (#15), providing yet another reason switching to solar energy would be extremely advantageous.
Photovoltaic Diagram, Resource #22
Cost Diagram, Resource #23