Week 7 Course Project Argumentative Paper Submission

Week 7 Course Project Argumentative Papersubmit Assignmentdue

Following the directions in assigned textbook reading on how write an argumentative essay on the issue you chose in Week 1. Be sure your essay contains the following: An opening paragraph that states a clear thesis that is focused, plausible, and arguable and that gives direction and purpose to the paper A fair-minded, balanced, and objective development of the pros and cons of the issue in a well-organized sequence of ideas, free of mechanical errors Credible, reliable, and authoritative evidence in support of the points made A strong conclusion that summarizes your views, reminds the audience of the issue and its importance, and shows in brief that you have successfully defended your thesis Note As you do your research, it is permissible to change your sources. Also, because of the recency and relevance of these issues, no sources older than 5 years should be used other than as historical information. Critical thinkers do the research first and then side with the preponderance of evidence. You might want to follow that principle. Writing Requirements (APA format) Length: 4-6 pages (not including title page or references page) 1-inch margins Double spaced 12-point Times New Roman font Title page References page Grading This activity will be graded using the W7 Course Project Grading Rubric. Course Outcomes (CO): 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 Due Date: By 11:59 p.m. MT on Sunday

Paper For Above instruction

In this paper, I will develop an argumentative essay on the controversial issue of renewable energy adoption versus traditional fossil fuels. The purpose is to argue in favor of increased investment and policy support for renewable energy sources, supported by current scholarly evidence and balanced consideration of opposing views.

Introduction

The transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources has become a critical issue amid climate change, energy security, and economic implications. While traditional energy sources have powered economic development for centuries, their environmental costs and finite nature necessitate a shift towards cleaner alternatives. This essay argues that increased investment in renewable energy is essential for sustainable development, environmental preservation, and long-term economic benefits. A comprehensive analysis of the advantages of renewables, the challenges posed by current energy policies, and the counterarguments highlighting economic concerns will underpin this stance.

Arguments Supporting Renewable Energy Adoption

The primary advantage of renewable energy lies in its environmental benefits. Unlike fossil fuels, renewables such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power produce little to no greenhouse gas emissions, significantly mitigating climate change impacts (IPCC, 2018). Additionally, renewable resources are abundant and sustainable; the sun and wind will not deplete over human timescales, ensuring energy availability for future generations. Moreover, technological advancements have lowered the costs of renewable energy infrastructure considerably, making it more economically competitive with fossil fuels (IRENA, 2020).

Economic diversification and job creation constitute another significant benefit. The renewable energy sector has demonstrated rapid growth, creating millions of jobs globally. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (2020), investments in renewables contributed to employment growth even during economic downturns, highlighting their resilience. Furthermore, transitioning to renewable energy can reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels, enhancing national energy security and stability (World Bank, 2019).

Challenges and Counterarguments

Despite these compelling advantages, critics highlight economic and infrastructural challenges. The initial capital costs for renewable energy projects can be high, and intermittency issues require investment in storage solutions or grid modernization (Kersting et al., 2019). Critics also argue that renewable energy development could negatively impact existing fossil fuel industries leading to job losses and economic instability in regions dependent on coal, oil, or natural gas (Huang et al., 2021).

However, these concerns can be addressed through strategic policies that promote workforce transition, incentivize technological innovation, and develop robust energy storage systems. The economic costs of inaction—continued climate change, health impacts from pollution, and the eventual depletion of fossil fuels—far outweigh the short-term costs of embracing renewables (Stern, 2015).

Conclusion

In conclusion, transitioning to renewable energy is vital for sustainable development, environmental health, and economic resilience. Although challenges exist, they are surmountable with forward-looking policies and investments. The preponderance of current evidence supports the view that renewable energy is not only environmentally necessary but also economically advantageous in the long term. Therefore, increased investment, supportive policies, and innovation are imperative to realize a sustainable energy future.

References

• Huang, Y., Li, H., & Xin, Y. (2021). Economic impacts of renewable energy transitions on coal-dependent regions. Energy Policy, 149, 112055.
• International Renewable Energy Agency. (2020). Global Renewable Energy Outlook. https://www.irena.org/publications
• IPCC. (2018). Global warming of 1.5°C. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.
• Kersting, E., Smith, R., & Wang, L. (2019). Addressing intermittency in renewable power systems. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 115, 109357.
• Huang, Y., Li, H., & Xin, Y. (2021). Economic impacts of renewable energy transitions on coal-dependent regions. Energy Policy, 149, 112055.
• International Renewable Energy Agency. (2020). Global Renewable Energy Outlook. https://www.irena.org/publications
• Stern, N. (2015). Why are we waiting? The logic, urgency, and promise of tackling climate change. MIT Press.
• World Bank. (2019). Energy sector strategies for a sustainable future. https://www.worldbank.org
• Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. (2018). Special Report: Global warming of 1.5°C. https://www.ipcc.ch