Week 6 SI Flashcards
Why is energy efficiency crucial in sustainable design?
Energy efficiency reduces the environmental impact of energy use by lowering greenhouse gas emissions and conserving resources, essential for sustainable development.
Define renewable energy and give examples.
Renewable energy comes from natural sources that are replenished over time, such as solar, wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal energy.
Why are fossil fuels considered unsustainable energy sources?
Fossil fuels are finite, emit greenhouse gases, and cause pollution, making them harmful to the environment and unsustainable in the long term.
What is “embedded energy” in products?
Embedded energy refers to the total energy used during a product’s lifecycle, from raw material extraction to disposal, including manufacturing and transportation.
How does “energy return on investment” (EROI) relate to sustainable energy sources?
EROI measures the ratio of energy produced to the energy invested in creating it. Higher EROI values indicate more efficient, sustainable energy sources.
Explain the concept of “passive design” in sustainable architecture.
Passive design uses natural elements like sunlight, wind, and shade to regulate temperature and lighting, reducing the need for artificial heating, cooling, and lighting.
What is the role of photovoltaic (PV) panels in sustainable energy?
PV panels convert sunlight directly into electricity, providing a clean, renewable energy source for homes, buildings, and devices.
Describe how energy efficiency in buildings can be improved.
Improvements include insulation, energy-efficient windows, LED lighting, smart thermostats, and using renewable energy sources like solar power.
What is the importance of “net-zero energy” buildings?
Net-zero energy buildings produce as much energy as they consume, often through renewable sources, reducing their environmental impact and energy costs.
How do electric vehicles (EVs) contribute to energy sustainability?
EVs reduce dependence on fossil fuels, produce fewer emissions, and can be powered by renewable energy sources, supporting a cleaner transportation system.
What is “energy as a service” (EaaS), and how does it support sustainability?
EaaS is a model where energy is provided as a managed service, focusing on efficiency and renewable sources, encouraging sustainable energy use and reducing waste.
Explain the difference between “on-grid” and “off-grid” renewable energy systems.
On-grid systems are connected to the public power grid, while off-grid systems operate independently, often used in remote areas with no grid access.
How does energy storage support renewable energy use?
Energy storage, like batteries, allows for the storage of surplus renewable energy, making it available during low production times and improving reliability.
Why is it essential to consider energy sources in product lifecycle assessments (LCAs)?
Different energy sources have varying environmental impacts, and choosing cleaner energy sources can significantly reduce a product’s overall footprint.
