Differentiate between Renewable and non-renewable sources of energy.

Renewable and non-renewable sources of energy differ fundamentally in their availability, environmental impact, and sustainability. Here's how they differ:

1. Availability and Renewability:

   • Renewable Sources: Renewable energy sources are naturally replenished on a human timescale, making them inexhaustible over the long term. Examples include solar energy, wind energy, hydropower, biomass, and geothermal energy. These sources rely on ongoing natural processes and are not depleted with use.
   • Non-Renewable Sources: Non-renewable energy sources are finite and limited in supply. They are formed over millions of years through geological processes and cannot be replenished within a human lifespan. Examples include fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas, as well as nuclear energy derived from uranium and other radioactive elements.

2. Environmental Impact:

   • Renewable Sources: Renewable energy sources generally have lower environmental impact compared to non-renewable sources. They produce minimal greenhouse gas emissions during operation and do not contribute to air and water pollution or habitat destruction associated with extraction and combustion.
   • Non-Renewable Sources: Non-renewable energy sources, particularly fossil fuels, have significant environmental consequences. Extraction, transportation, and combustion of fossil fuels release greenhouse gases, particulate matter, sulfur dioxide, and other pollutants, contributing to climate change, air pollution, and environmental degradation.

3. Sustainability:

   • Renewable Sources: Renewable energy sources offer long-term sustainability and resilience by harnessing abundant and naturally occurring energy flows. They provide energy security, reduce dependence on finite resources, and support economic development while mitigating environmental risks.
   • Non-Renewable Sources: Non-renewable energy sources are inherently unsustainable, as their finite reserves will eventually be depleted. Dependence on these sources poses economic, geopolitical, and environmental risks, including price volatility, resource conflicts, and ecological degradation.

In summary, while renewable energy sources offer clean, abundant, and sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels, non-renewable sources remain prevalent but come with environmental and long-term sustainability challenges. Transitioning to a more diversified energy mix that prioritizes renewables is critical for addressing climate change, promoting energy security, and ensuring a sustainable future.