Sponsored by the Illinois Institute of Technology

Here’s a breakdown of what is our presentation is about.

Our Presentation

Greenhouse gases consist of gases in the atmosphere that trap the infrared emissions that the earth tries to reflect back into space. Carbon Dioxide is the biggest contributor to this effect. While carbon dioxide is a naturally occurring gas, it’s concentration in the atmosphere is increased due to the burning of fossil fuels and the manufacturing of cement. The carbon dioxide produced from such productions not only adds to the atmospheric concentration but also becomes trapped in the oceans.  Its effects have a vast spread from the inability of sea life to make shells to an increase in extreme weather conditions like hurricanes.

Carbon Dioxide

The global demand for oil is rapidly increasing in the midst of expansion of such developing countries such as India and China.  Continued use of fossil fuels will inevitably lead to environmental destruction, which in turn, would cause massive economic downfall, political instability, and global conflicts.  Our only alternative is to actively pursue technological advancements in the production and use of bio-fuels. Bio-fuels, however, hold inherent flaws as an integral part in feeding the world, especially when it comes to using precious resources as fuels, not as foods.  Thus, it is essential that we look at both sides of the bio-fuels debate.  With efficient conversion of new generation of bio-fuels, is it a viable alternative that can supply the global energy needs?

 

Fossil Fuels and Bio-fuels

The polar regions often serve as a barometer for Global Warming. It has been observed that these regions have melted significantly due to rising global temperatures. This has contributed to sea levels rising at a rapid rate. Rising sea levels could wipe out low lying lands, and destroy the habitats of the naturally occurring flora and fauna of those areas. These include places as diverse as Louisiana and Bangladesh, where 17 million people live less than one meter above sea level. Additionally, as glaciers melt, the natural habitats for animals such as polar bears, walruses, foxes, and many others will be wiped out, endangering those species.

Polar Regions

The Sun is the single greatest source of physical energy at the disposal of mankind. This presentation outlines a few of the ways that solar energy is being captured, converted, and put to use in housing applications. Our to goal is for the audience to walk away with a basic understanding of how solar energy can be captured and used, the benefits of using solar technology, and the challenges of implanting solar technologies.

Solar Power

Wind Power

Wind energy, along with solar power, is the most abundant and free power source known to man.  It is a renewable, environmentally friendly power source that is available in every region of the globe.  The technology to take advantage of this power is already in place, and all it needs is more people to become aware of its potential.  The cost to build is cheap compared to current energy methods and there are no greenhouse gas emissions.  There is little to no impact on wildlife, terrain, or our wallets.  Once the price of wind is known, there is no chance of fuel price inflation, as the price of wind is fixed.  In the long run, wind has the power to be one of the key constituents that will meet our energy needs without forcing us to change our way of life.

Global Warming & Community Outreach