Harvard Links Renewable Energy

Harvard Links Renewable Energy, Public Health

"The clean energy transition can become the engine of growth for the 21st century, helping to alleviate poverty and initiate a more equitable, healthy and sustainable form of development."

- Harvard Study, "Inside the Greenhouse"

Boston, Massachusetts - August 2, 2004 [SolarAccess.com] A new report from Harvard Medical School links use of renewable energy sources to public health. Entitled "Inside the Greenhouse: The Impacts of CO2 & Climate Change on Public Health in the Inner City" the report shows how renewable energy sources can impact public health by slowing climate change.

The report notes that increased levels of CO2 and warmer climates stimulate the production of ragweed pollen and molds, having a major impact on the public's respiratory health. Greater use of renewable energy resources, energy efficiency, hybrid vehicles, green building and improved public transport would reduce greenhouse gases (GHG) responsible for climate change, thereby helping to stabilize the climate.

The report notes that "from extraction to combustion, oil takes an enormous toll on the environment and on public health, and the impacts fall disproportionately on poor nations and poor and minority populations within developed nations." The report recommends supporting public policies that promote the use of renewable energy resources to meet the challenge of global climate change. Suggested among the list of policy recommendations are: green purchase power agreements with gas and electric utilities; Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS); aggregate purchasing contracts that specify renewable power for commercial and residential sectors; and green tags.

"A properly-financed clean energy transition would produce many new industries, new jobs and boost international trade," the report states. "The clean energy transition can become the engine of growth for the 21st century, helping to alleviate poverty and initiate a more equitable, healthy and sustainable form of development."

You can download the full report at the link below:

(Article courtesy of the Geothermal Energy Association)

For Further Information:

• Harvard Med School Report (.pdf)

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