Alternative Energy

Alternative Energy refers to energy sources other than fossil fuels.  This includes all renewable sources and nuclear.  Nuclear is not classified as a renewable energy source.  A renewable energy source is produced from sources that do not deplete or can be replenished¹ within a human’s lifetime. Nuclear is produced from mined elements like uranium and thorium which cannot be replenished.

This video outlines the process of turning crude oil extracted from the earth into the treated petroleum products that are used so widely in modern manufacturing.

Distinguishing between renewable and alternative energy may seem trivial but the terms are so frequently used that it is important to understand the difference.

Generally, alternative energy sources are looked upon favourably because they do not directly emit greenhouse gases in their production but of course all forms of energy have their own costs, benefits and tradeoffs.