Is using renewable energy the best way for a manufacturing business to contribute to sustainable development?
CAMBRIDGE
O level and GCSE
Year Examined
February/March 2022
Topic
Sustainability
👑Complete Model Essay
Renewable Energy and Sustainable Development in Manufacturing
Is renewable energy the best way for a manufacturing business to contribute to sustainable development? This essay will explore this question, considering both the advantages and disadvantages of renewable energy, and comparing it to other methods of achieving sustainability.
One of the main arguments in favor of renewable energy is its potential to reduce a business's environmental impact. Unlike fossil fuels, renewable sources like solar or wind power produce little to no greenhouse gas emissions during operation. This aligns with the core principle of sustainable development: meeting present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs (Brundtland Report, 1987). Additionally, renewable energy sources are inexhaustible, unlike finite resources like coal and oil. This ensures a long-term energy solution that decreases reliance on environmentally damaging extraction methods.
However, the high set-up costs associated with transitioning to renewable energy can be prohibitive for some businesses. Installing solar panels or wind turbines requires significant initial investment, which may not be feasible for smaller manufacturers or those with tight budgets. Moreover, the reliability of renewable energy sources can be inconsistent. Solar power is weather-dependent, while wind power relies on sufficient wind speeds. This unpredictability can lead to fluctuations in energy supply, potentially causing production delays or disruptions.
Manufacturing businesses can contribute to sustainable development through other means as well. Implementing environmentally friendly production methods, such as using fewer resources and reducing waste, can lead to lower average costs and minimize environmental damage. Developing new environmentally friendly products or packaging can attract environmentally conscious consumers and open up new markets. Recycling waste materials minimizes the need for virgin resources and reduces landfill waste. Reforestation efforts can help offset a business's carbon footprint and contribute to ecosystem restoration.
Conclusion
While renewable energy offers significant environmental benefits, it may not always be the most feasible or effective way for a manufacturing business to contribute to sustainable development. Factors such as cost, reliability, and specific industry needs must be carefully considered. Ultimately, a multifaceted approach that incorporates various sustainable practices, such as resource efficiency, waste reduction, and product innovation, alongside the potential adoption of renewable energy, will likely be the most impactful and sustainable path forward.
Is using renewable energy the best way for a manufacturing business to contribute to sustainable development?
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Renewable Energy and Sustainable Development in Manufacturing
Is renewable energy the best way for a manufacturing business to contribute to sustainable development? This essay will explore this question, considering both the advantages and disadvantages of renewable energy, and comparing it to other methods of achieving sustainability.
One of the main arguments in favor of renewable energy is its potential to reduce a business's environmental impact. Unlike fossil fuels, renewable sources like solar or wind power produce little to no greenhouse gas emissions during operation. This aligns with the core principle of sustainable development: meeting present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs (Brundtland Report, 1987). Additionally, renewable energy sources are inexhaustible, unlike finite resources like coal and oil. This ensures a long-term energy solution that decreases reliance on environmentally damaging extraction methods.
However, the high set-up costs associated with transitioning to renewable energy can be prohibitive for some businesses. Installing solar panels or wind turbines requires significant initial investment, which may not be feasible for smaller manufacturers or those with tight budgets. Moreover, the reliability of renewable energy sources can be inconsistent. Solar power is weather-dependent, while wind power relies on sufficient wind speeds. This unpredictability can lead to fluctuations in energy supply, potentially causing production delays or disruptions.
Manufacturing businesses can contribute to sustainable development through other means as well. Implementing environmentally friendly production methods, such as using fewer resources and reducing waste, can lead to lower average costs and minimize environmental damage. Developing new environmentally friendly products or packaging can attract environmentally conscious consumers and open up new markets. Recycling waste materials minimizes the need for virgin resources and reduces landfill waste. Reforestation efforts can help offset a business's carbon footprint and contribute to ecosystem restoration.
Conclusion
While renewable energy offers significant environmental benefits, it may not always be the most feasible or effective way for a manufacturing business to contribute to sustainable development. Factors such as cost, reliability, and specific industry needs must be carefully considered. Ultimately, a multifaceted approach that incorporates various sustainable practices, such as resource efficiency, waste reduction, and product innovation, alongside the potential adoption of renewable energy, will likely be the most impactful and sustainable path forward.
Extracts from Mark Schemes
Do you think using renewable energy is the best way for a manufacturing business to contribute to sustainable development? Justify your answer.
Award up to 2 marks for identification of relevant points. Award up to 2 marks for relevant development of points. Award up to 2 marks for a justified decision as to whether using renewable energy is the best way for a manufacturing business to contribute to sustainable development.
Points might include:
- - No/low energy bill [k] which reduces expenses [an]
- - Need to use fewer scarce resources / conserve natural resources / supply not limited / does not run out [k]
- - High set up cost [k] which business might not be able to afford [an]
- - Amount of energy can depend on weather conditions / may not be a reliable source of power [k] which could lead to less output / delays in production [an]
Other methods might include:
- - Develop environmentally friendly production methods [k] reduce amount of waste [an] leading to lower average costs [an]
- - Use fewer resources [k] which can (also) help reduce production costs [an]
- - Develop new environmentally friendly products/packaging [k] which may help attract new customers/markets [an]
- - Recycle waste [k] which helps reduce amount of materials needed [an]
- - Replant trees (where land has been cleared) [k]
- - Reuse materials [k]
Justification might include: Renewable energy might not be a reliable source of power [k] which could lead to delays in production [an]. Another way is to develop new environmentally friendly products [k]. Whilst this could involve high set up costs [an], I think it is a better way because the new products could also help attract new customers which not only helps the manufacturer recover the initial costs [eval] it can also encourage others to contribute to sustainable development by using its greener products [eval].