Green Technology

Green technology has evolved into somewhat of a catch phrase and even a clever marketing term in these contemporary times. Having said this, green technologies (and the notion of sustainability in general) have actually existed since the early 1990s when the effects of fossil fuels first became clear.^[1]

Green technology has now become a truly global industry and while it promises incredible benefits, the possible stumbling blocks are just as profound. This article will answer several questions. We will first look at some of the most common green technology projects (such as the use of renewable energy sources). It will then be easier to discuss factors such as how green technology affects our lives as well as some challenges that green technology may still need to overcome.

How is Green Technology Defined?

According to Investopedia, the most standard green technology definition represents any type of approach that intends to mitigate the impacts of human society upon the natural environment.^[2] We can therefore see that green technology encompasses a host of potential strategies. There are nonetheless a handful of well-known industries which have already begun to embrace green energy and technology. The five most recognisable are:^[3]

• Photovoltaics (solar power)
• Wind power
• Hydropower
• Biomass fuels
• Geothermal energy

However, there are many other green fuel technologies that promise to provide a clean energy source while still offering viable consumer-based solutions. Perhaps the most promising innovation in recent times comes in the form of fuel cells like the hydrogen fuel cell and its direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) counterpart. Indeed, the global demand for hydrogen as a fuel reached a staggering 94 million metric tonnes in 2019.^[4] It is clear to see that these green technology solutions are on the rise.

The Effects of Green Technology Upon the Environment

As the name already suggests, any type of clean energy technology is designed to protect the environment while supplying a reliable source of power to the general public. Many types of renewable energy are also seeking to reverse the decidedly devastating effects associated with fossil fuel consumption. This will ultimately result in several positive scenarios such as:^[2]

• Reducing the aggregate carbon footprints of developed nations.
• Reversing the impact of deforestation.
• Ensuring supplies of potable drinking water.
• Averting (or at least muting) the effects of global climate change.
• Reducing the amount of non-biodegradable waste entering into the environment (such as through the use of green recycling technologies).

Green technology therefore aims to bridge the gap between innovation and real-world results.

Does Green Technology Represent a Sustainable Approach?

While the intentions of green technology are quite impressive at first glance, it is still important to mention that the future of renewable energy depends largely upon its sustainable nature. In this case, we are referring to economic viability as opposed to green technology in relation to the environment alone.

Simply stated, any form of new renewable energy technology must be affordable to the average consumer. This was one of the issues associated with green hydrogen technology in the past and thankfully, recent advancements have enabled these systems to become increasingly popular alternatives to fossil fuels. Individuals who appreciate the benefits of green technology and who can afford these solutions will be much more likely to adopt these environmentally friendly approaches, helping to ensure long-term fiscal sustainability.

What Challenges Does Green Technology Face?

There are still other hurdles which green technology will likely face in the coming years. Some of these are particularly relevant when discussing impoverished nations:^[5]

• Logistical implementation
• Convincing native populations of the benefits that green technology can provide
• Offshore investment

Other green technology problems are more general in scope. Examples include securing the necessary levels of investment, highlighting beneficial effects that might take years to realise and competing against fossil fuel firms which enjoy the lion's share of the energy marketplace.

What Solutions is SFC Energy Providing?

SFC Energy is pleased to remain at the forefront of green technology; We are well aware of the benefits attributed to green hydrogen production and due in no small part to recent advancements, these sources of redundant power are already enjoying a pronounced presence within countless industries.

However, we still need to remember that green technology is in its infancy. Having only existed for just over 30 years, there are countless other windfalls which have yet to be realised. This is why firms such as SFC Energy aim to remain well ahead of the green technology curve in order to ensure a brighter future for the entire world.