Question

China relies on coal for two-thirds of its commercial energy usage and \(80 \%\) of its electricity, partly because the country has abundant supplies of this resource. Yet China's coal burning has caused innumerable and growing problems for China and neighboring countries, and now, because of the Asian Brown Cloud (Core Case Study), for the Pacific Ocean and the west coast of North America. Do you think China is justified in developing this resource to the maximum, as other countries, including the United States, have done with their coal resources? Explain. What are China's alternatives?

Short answer

China should balance coal use with developing alternative energy sources to reduce environmental impact.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Context

China uses coal for two-thirds of its energy and 80% of its electricity due to abundant resources. However, this usage has environmental impacts, such as pollution affecting neighboring regions and beyond.

Evaluating Justification for Coal Use

Consider whether it is justified for China to maximize coal usage like other countries have done. This involves weighing the benefits of energy security and economic growth against the environmental and health costs.

Exploring Alternatives to Coal

China's alternatives to coal include developing renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, investing in nuclear energy, improving energy efficiency, and transitioning to natural gas.

Balancing Development and Environmental Impact

Assess the balance between China's developmental needs and the environmental consequences. Consider international examples where countries have transitioned to cleaner energy systems while maintaining economic growth.

Key concepts

Environmental Impact

China's dependence on coal as a primary energy source results in significant environmental repercussions. Coal combustion is a major contributor to air pollution, which negatively affects both China and its neighbors. Issues such as smog, acid rain, and health problems are prevalent in regions with high coal usage. Moreover, the Asian Brown Cloud, a large smog layer, contributes to climate change and impacts weather patterns. It even affects distant places like the west coast of North America.
Burning coal releases large amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2), a greenhouse gas responsible for global warming. This contributes to global climate change, which has far-reaching impacts on ecosystems and human habitats.

• Air quality degradation due to pollutants like sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides
• Health impacts, including respiratory diseases and premature deaths
• Contribution to global warming through CO2 emissions

Given these challenges, reducing coal usage is crucial for minimizing its environmental impact.

Renewable Energy Alternatives

China has several viable alternatives to coal that can reduce environmental harm while still meeting its energy needs. Transitioning to renewable energy sources offers a sustainable path forward.
Solar energy, harnessed through photovoltaic panels, provides a clean and abundant power supply. China is one of the largest producers and users of solar energy globally, and further development in this area can significantly lessen its reliance on coal.
Wind energy is another promising alternative. With vast land areas suitable for wind farms, China can tap into this resource to generate electricity with minimal ecological footprint. Hydroelectric power, already in use with projects like the Three Gorges Dam, offers a mature renewable option.

• Solar energy: Abundant, reduces CO2 emissions
• Wind energy: Exploits vast land, sustainable
• Hydroelectric power: Well-established, scalable

Emphasizing these options can help China transition towards a cleaner energy future.

Energy Security

China's reliance on coal provides a sense of energy security due to its vast coal reserves. However, to ensure a stable and secure energy future, diversifying energy sources is key.
Transitioning to renewables not only meets current energy demands but also prepares for future growth. The stability of renewable energy sources can also reduce dependency on imports and mitigate geopolitical tensions.
A diversified energy portfolio strengthens resilience against external shocks like fossil fuel price spikes or supply chain disruptions. Investing in technologies like energy storage and smart grids can improve energy efficiency and management.

• Stability through diversified energy sources
• Reduction in import dependence
• Increased efficiency with advanced technologies

Balancing energy security with diversification is essential for long-term sustainability.

Economic Growth vs Environmental Costs

China’s rapid economic growth has been largely fueled by coal, but this growth comes with environmental costs.
Economic benefits include increased industrial production, job creation, and improved infrastructure. However, the cost to the environment can undermine long-term economic stability through health expenses and ecological degradation. For instance, healthcare costs rise due to pollution-related diseases, and environmental restoration becomes necessary.
Finding a balance where economic growth does not come at the expense of environmental well-being is crucial. Countries that transition to sustainable practices often see long-term benefits, including a healthier workforce and reduced costs associated with pollution.

• Economic advantages: job growth, infrastructure development
• Environmental costs: health issues, ecological impact
• Long-term balance: sustainable growth, reduced health care costs

This balance is vital to ensure that economic advancements are sustainable without degrading the environment.