Tidal energy positively impacts people primarily through its lack of harmful air emissions, which can lead to significant health benefits.
Unlike energy sources that burn fossil fuels, tidal energy generation produces no air emissions. This includes harmful substances like soot and fine particles. According to a statement from 03-Jul-2020, these types of air pollutants are linked to serious health issues in humans, such as:
- Human cancer
- Heart damage
- Lung damage
- Impacts on mental functioning
By not releasing these pollutants into the atmosphere, tidal energy contributes to cleaner air, which in turn reduces the risk of these associated health problems for communities living near power generation facilities or in areas affected by air pollution from other sources.
Health Benefits of Clean Air
Clean air is vital for public health. The absence of harmful particulate matter and soot from tidal energy prevents the health impacts commonly associated with air pollution from other energy sources.
- Reduced Respiratory Issues: Fine particles can penetrate deep into the lungs, causing or worsening conditions like asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema.
- Lower Cardiovascular Risk: Air pollution is a known risk factor for heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular diseases.
- Decreased Cancer Risk: Certain components of air pollution are carcinogenic.
- Potential Cognitive Benefits: Research suggests links between long-term exposure to air pollution and negative impacts on cognitive function.
By avoiding these emissions, tidal energy offers a direct positive impact on human health, contrasting sharply with energy sources that rely on combustion.
Comparing Impacts
| Energy Source | Air Emissions (Soot, Fine Particles) | Health Impact (Related to Emissions) |
|---|---|---|
| Tidal Energy | None | Avoids risks of cancer, heart/lung damage, and mental functioning issues related to air pollution. |
| Fossil Fuels | Significant | Associated with risks of cancer, heart/lung damage, and mental functioning issues. |
This table highlights the specific benefit of tidal energy mentioned in the reference regarding its impact on people's health through clean air.
In conclusion, a key way tidal energy impacts people, based on the provided information, is by safeguarding public health through the prevention of harmful air emissions and their associated severe medical conditions.
