The importance of sustainable energy in an ever-growing world

It took thousands of years for the world population to reach 1 billion in 1804 – then in just another 200 years, it grew sevenfold. In 2011, the global population passed 7 billion, and is expected to exceed 8.5 billion by 2030. In this blog we look at the importance of sustainability in an ever-growing world.

What is driving global population growth

The remarkable population growth across the globe has been driven largely by positive factors including improved health and increased lifespans, it has however been accompanied by increasing urbanisation and accelerating migration. These trends have far-reaching implications energy use, experts believe if we continue to grow at this pace, we will need 50 percent more energy to sustain humanity by 2050.

In 2007 the increase in migration rates led to more people recording that they lived in urban areas than in rural areas for the first time in recorded history. It is estimated that by 2050, 68 per cent of the world population will be living in cities.

The implications on energy use

These predictions for increased city living have far-stretching implications, affecting economic development, employment, and income distribution, they also affect the amount of energy needed to sustain us.

This looming energy dilemma, coupled with the threat of climate change, demands not just innovation in the energy sectors, but also responsible consumption in both developed and developing countries.

To ensure a viable – and environmentally sound – future the world needs a revolution. An energy revolution, where development is fuelled by affordable, accessible, and sustainable energy resources.

A sustainable future

In a bid to reduce energy usage and lessen environmental impacts, some developed nations have already successfully managed to dissociate economic growth from energy consumption. Improving expertise and technology has seen the development of several eco-cities around the world, these include Masdar City in Abu Dhabi and PlanIT Valley in Portugal. These cities include specialist infrastructure which include water-saving fittings, insulated walls, double-glazed windows, south-facing orientation to optimize passive heat, solar photovoltaic roofs and walls, and on-site energy generating stations.

Large-scale renewable energy use in urban environments is imperative if we are going to meet the energy needs of the future. As technology continues to advance, renewable energies will need to become ever more efficient, user-friendly, cost-effective, accessible, and sustainable. If you want to excel in this ever-changing energy environment speak to the innovation experts at Energy Technology & Control who are ready to guide your organisation to a prosperous future.