Energy, climate and health

Abstract

This paper is a part of a series (1-5) and summarizes the overall status of energy sources in the world and in Chile, as of August 2007, emphasizing their effects upon human and environmental health and upon the economy. We propose as a solution for the negative aspects, such as global warming and pollution, the adoption of those sources that are clean and free from major risks. Against them it is argued that they are expensive and that their potential for supporting economic growth is low. These aspects are analyzed in regard to eolic, geothermal, solar,and sea energy, and in respect of small hydroelectric power plants and of hydrogen. We show that the objections are not valid for the immediate and short term in regard to the first two clean sources mentioned and to small hydroelectric plants. In addition, Chile is a privileged country as far as the abundance of natural energy sources is concerned. We then document the high degree of current and projected use of fossil fuels, of large hydroelectric plants and of biofuels; the negative aspects of the latter, undetected by many, are exposed. Given the current promotion, from many quarters, of atomic energy as a source of electricity, its numerous setbacks and dangers are presented. The recent creation of the Ministries of Energy and of the Environment by Dr. Bachelet´s government are important positive steps. Another initiative is the introduction in Parliament of a bill mandating that 8% of the additional energy produced be derived from non traditional renewable sources. We have proposed ideas for a National Energy Policy that may strengthen the planning and regulatory roles of the Ministry, by creating, for example, a National Energy Institute and a National Fund for Clean and Safe Energy.