How does renewable energy contribute to sustainability?

Renewable energy contributes to sustainability primarily because it reduces greenhouse gas emissions and supports energy independence. By utilizing sources like solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal energy, renewable technologies provide cleaner alternatives to fossil fuels. This shift leads to a significant decrease in carbon emissions, which is critical for mitigating climate change and its associated impacts on ecosystems and human health.

Additionally, renewable energy enhances energy independence. Many countries rely heavily on imported fossil fuels, which can be subject to fluctuating prices and geopolitical tensions. By investing in renewable energy sources, nations can harness their own natural resources, reducing their dependence on foreign energy supplies and bolstering their energy security. This not only stabilizes energy prices but also promotes economic resilience and sustainability.

In contrast, some options suggest negative impacts associated with renewable energy, which do not reflect its true benefits toward achieving sustainability goals.