How Can Solar Power Installation Preserve Biodiversity?
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Biodiversity is present everywhere in the natural world, be it animals, plants, or even microorganisms present around us. However, the advent of human development and civilization has led to unsustainable acts — inefficient farming techniques, overfishing, the burning of fossil fuels, and other activities — which contribute to biodiversity loss. As discussed in a New York Times article, these threats have reduced the populations of animals by 70% since the 1970s and will continue to endanger more species, if not enough interventions are done.
To combat these issues, more businesses and governments are shifting to renewable sources of energy. Among all forms of green electricity, solar is one of the most popular choices, as the sun offers unlimited power when harnessed correctly. A feature by Hoymiles on the reasons to go solar notes that by switching to solar power, you reduce dependence on the grid. The energy you produce is not only safe for the environment, but any excess energy collected by solar panels can go back into the grid — reducing the overall amount of energy that needs to be generated using fossil fuels. Having businesses and governments participate on a larger scale would benefit not only the environment and biodiversity, but also provide greater returns on investment by moving us away from nonrenewable sources. Here are some ways solar power can help slow down biodiversity loss:
Reducing factors that drive climate change
Climate change remains one of the strongest threats to biodiversity loss because of the abrupt ecological changes it brings, making it difficult for organisms to survive. In the worst-case scenarios, climate change can even lead to extinction. As reviewed by the United States Environmental Protection Agency, one of the primary contributors to climate change is greenhouse gasses, which are emitted from human activities related to agriculture and the burning of fossil fuels (oil, coal, and natural gas), with the latter contributing as much as 36% of the warming effect through carbon dioxide alone.
By converting to renewable energy such as solar, you cut down the use of fossil fuels which in turn, reduces greenhouse gas emissions. When more people shift away from fossil fuels, there will also be a lesser need for coal mining and gas extraction, which lowers pollution. It’s these differences that add up and result in the mitigated effects of climate change, allowing organisms to proliferate and thrive.
Contributing to positive co-existence with the environment
Solar parks have a huge effect on the environment they are located in. Considering how much space solar panels occupy, they are capable of affecting the microclimate, which involves the air temperature and precipitation, the soil, and even the vegetation present within an area. These changes in habitat may lead to biodiversity loss when uncontrolled. However, there can also be signs of growth. In a study by Ecosphere, the shade solar panels bring to deserts could have a positive effect on plant diversity and abundance, depending on the type of soil. To combat any issues brought by solar panels, some studies have shown that having additional adjustments to the environment can improve and even encourage biodiversity growth. Although this would require more human input, it’s an essential effort to promote sustainability.
What can you contribute to biodiversity?
Biodiversity is involved in every aspect of our lives, so it’s important to find ways to protect it. One way you can encourage your community to learn more to protect the environment is through advocacy campaigns like “International Biodiversity Day”. These events teach us how diversity exists everywhere, even in the food we eat. Additionally, people can call for a safeguard for biodiversity by advocating for renewable resources.
On a personal level, you can opt to avail of high-efficiency microinverters to get you started on a smart, sustainable home. And through louder calls to action, you can motivate big businesses and governments in your area to protect the environment we live in, by switching over to green energy.
Specially written for HARDCASTLEGIS.com
By: Rihanna Josette
