‘Consumption of energy in all forms has been rising all over the country. There is an urgent need to develop a sustainable path of energy development and energy saving.’ Suggest and explain any three measures to solve this binning problem. (CBSE 2016)

The rapid consumption of energy in all forms has given rise to an urgent need to develop a sustainable path of energy development and energy saving.

This can be done by adopting the following measures-

1. The use of public transport systems instead of individual vehicles can help in minimising the usage of resources such as petroleum or diesel. Pooling is a very sustainable option in this regard as well.

2. The use of electricity needs to be regulated carefully. Switching off power points and plugs and other electrical appliances when not in use can positively help in this direction.

3. Technology has also added to mechanisms wherein we can use as well as save energy at the same time. For example – the use of power saving devices available in the market. Additionally, the use of various non-conventional sources of energy can help in minimising the amount of energy used.

NOTE - Sources of energy are divided into - 1. Conventional sources – these include fossil fuels, coal, petroleum etc. 2. Non – Conventional sources – these include solar energy, wind energy, tidal energy etc. The need to use non – conventional sources is increasing because unlike the conventional sources, they do not require many years for formation under the earth’s crust, therefore are renewable in nature. Also, they are an alternative to the conventional sources which are increasingly being used up.