Rapid decarbonisation requires massive investment in renewables everywhere, but most of all in emerging economies
The first cotton mill in Rothesay opened in 1779, using the water that flowed out of Loch Fad to power a new type of spinning machine which was transforming the textile industry: Richard Arkwright’s water frame. But the stream proved fickle and underpowered. By 1800 the mill was running on steam engines based on James Watt’s design. But shipping coal to the island was pricey, and Rothesay’s industrial future looked increasingly bleak.
The large industrial cities which this produced also encouraged the flow of ideas and skills that made it quicker and easier to improve steam. Watt’s development of the condenser did not just improve one particular mill and steam engine, in the manner of Thom’s changes at Rothesay. It made all subsequent steam engines better, and built improvement into the very idea of such things.
It is essential that the world proves this thesis to be wrong. Doing so means embracing the aspect of capitalism which most worries environmentalists: growth. To develop while reducing dependence on fossil fuels—the only sort of growth with a real future—the poor world needs new technology and new investment. The growth supplied by capitalism is what provides both these things, which is why most economists see it as crucial to bringing the fossil-fuel age to an end.
And without accelerated innovation it will be incomplete. The current system is not the only way to get from bright ideas to products used on a broad, even world-changing, scale. But it has the best record. A lot of innovations are still needed if the world is to speed up its decarbonisation—better ways of storing energy, of heating houses, of cooling houses, of processing crops, of growing crops, of powering large vehicles, of producing plastics and more.
Brasil Últimas Notícias, Brasil Manchetes
Similar News:Você também pode ler notícias semelhantes a esta que coletamos de outras fontes de notícias.
Biden: Build Back Better agenda will bring 'historic investment in clean energy'President Biden on clean energy plan: 'When I think of climate crisis, I think of jobs. And that's what the Build Back Better framework will do for the American people. It's going to bring historic investment in clean energy addressing the climate crisis.'
Consulte Mais informação »
China Binges on U.S. Gas to Manage Energy Shortage, Carbon FootprintRecord U.S. liquefied natural gas exports to China today are in contrast to just a couple of years ago, after the country imposed tariffs on U.S. LNG during the trade war.
Consulte Mais informação »
Yemen's Marib city battens down as Houthis advance through energy-rich provinceExpecting a possible siege, pro-government forces in central Yemen are preparing to defend Marib city, their last northern stronghold, against advancing Houthi fighters bent on taking full control of one of Yemen's key energy-producing regions.
Consulte Mais informação »
Apple, other big companies take part in new Biden effort with promises on clean energyPresident Joe Biden unveiled a “First Movers Coalition” that involves pledges around clean energy from big companies. The FMC is expected to have more than 25 founding members, including Apple.
Consulte Mais informação »
To lower energy bills, more states must allow competition in electricity marketsOPINION: Unfortunately, millions of Americans still buy their power from monopoly suppliers, with no competition to ensure that customers are offered the best services and prices.
Consulte Mais informação »
Tips to save green and switch to more sustainable energy options at homeHow to reduce your carbon footprint with these tips and tricks that will save you money in the long run and help the planet.
Consulte Mais informação »