Sustainable Energy in Laymans Terms

It’s almost impossible not to have heard the term sustainable energy but what does it really mean?

I have seen it defined as “energy which is replenishable within a human lifetime and causes no long-term damage to the environment,” ~ Jamaica Sustainable Development Network. I have also heard that renewable energy and energy efficiency are the twin pillars of sustainable energy. The thing is when you break it all down into daily practices or investments it becomes an advanced version of the wisdom of the past. The simple act of being economical and avoiding waste is a common theme we commonly hear from our elders. It becomes advanced once you join new technologies to old, proven methods of behavior that became one liner’s such as “Waste not want not” or “A penny saved is a penny earned.”

This similarity between sustainable energy concepts and the wisdom of the ages is something that becomes clear.

Another beneficial element relating to this area of interest. They’re both systems based on making the most of what you have available to you and using it wisely. Making your home more energy-efficient through better insulation, energy-efficient appliances, efficient lighting, or just being more conscious of turning things off directly relates to “A penny saved is a penny earned.” Reducing the amount of frivolous disposable items, reusing what you can, selling or donating what you cannot, and recycling could be compared to “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure.” Investing in renewable energy such as solar and wind for the home takes advantage of energy that’s readily available that’s just not being put to good use, “Waste not want not.” The advantages of such an investment range from increasing the equity of your home to little or no electricity bill. A small check repaying you for energy your system put into the grid is even possible. Also in most states there are government programs that will pay or reimburse for part of the installation costs. Furthermore what other investment will pay for itself in 15 years or less, add value to your home, cut costs, possibly earn money, guaranteed for twenty-five years, and last forty to 50 years? “it’s thrifty to prepare today for the wants of tomorrow.” ~ Aesop.

A lot of old school knowledge came from living a life centered on sustenance.

Sustainable energy has real practical applications for the average citizen that are probably better described as sustainable living. This means a return to a better way of dealing with problems centered on practical priorities not the latest trend or monopoly. This is not regression nor is it clich. It’s simply cumulative wisdom being applied to the problems of the present. The implementing of sustainable energy practices have immediate and long-term benefits for everyone. The similarity between the 2 makes it easier to understand and gives the peace of mind that comes with knowing for a fact you’re doing the right thing.

Progress is more than just the next best thing.

It’s adopting the best practices of the past and combining them with the best forward-looking practices of the present. This sets the stage for the future based on solutions to what is foreseeable. Is it a surprise that sustainable energy practices fall in line with the wisdom of our elders? I do not think so. It’s a natural progression for compatible ideas to create a better way for future generations. Sustainable living concepts aren’t theory. They’re practical habits that combine the best ideas of the past with the best of the present. “There is no substitute for the comfort supplied by the utterly taken for granted relationship.” ~ Iris Murdoch.

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