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During our simulations we discovered our average carbon footprint as well as ways to reduce it for climate change. We found the majority of our carbon footprint based on consumption, was shelter. The simulation recommended simple things like turning down the thermostat when the house isn't occupied or during the evening, use more energy efficient light bulbs, to add insulation and don't purchase as many one-time products.
Our group also investigated how the majority of our electricity is produced, and we discovered it was coal burning. This method does work, but also produces tons of carbon waste. A more costly but environmental efficient measure, is to use solar panels. It's a rather productive method for Edmontonians. Based on the data from 1981-2010, Edmonton has an average 325 sunny days a year.
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Edmonton usually get 90% of sunny days within a year and I do believe that using solar panels will help the environment but solar panels are usually expensive but in order to make a change in this world there's always something you have to sacrifice.
Two notes on the cost of solar panels.
1) How does the average price of solar power compares to other energy sources? The keyword to look for on this is "grid parity".
2) How are these costs changing? (This will let us know what to expect as we move forward.) This is a common question, with many ways of answering it, but here's a place to start.
Based on the information above, it is evident that there are multiple methods/ways to reduce our ecological footprint. For instance, adjusting the thermostat as necessary can have profound effects in reducing carbon production. Furthermore, with technological advances, one can purchase “smart technology” such as smart thermostats. As a result, one can give his/her thermostat a schedule for heating and cooling. It is also important to note that by investing on these more efficient technologies, one can help create a better environment.
I completely agree with you simran. As a person who has "smart technology" in their home I completely agree with you, with our winters being quite cold most of us will turn up the thermostat to be a little warmer and this does increase our ecological foot print. So if we were to all be more efficient with heating we could reduce this dramatically thus saving money as well.
group 6- Solar panels are quite costly and the only time it is being most effective is when the sun is directly facing it. Keep in mind it does not work at all during the night.
I understand what you are saying Faizaan, but also to keep in mind, is that solar panels have the capability to store energy.
I like the way you explained what we could do to improve. I agree that using solar panels would be a much more environmentally friendly way of producing electricity even though they are most costly.
I agree with using solar panels as an alternative electrical source, and although they are expensive I believe that the consequences of climate change do come at a higher price.
The way you expanded research into alternative energy forms and how they could be successful in Edmonton gave a deeper insight into the multitude of possible changes we can make in our lives day to day. Some of those may have other cons, such as the price, but it's hard to put a price on the global climate.
Nhat Phan
Sep 14, 2016