The world is dependent on a range of different energy sources. In 2018 fossil fuels like gas, oil and coal, made up more than 81 percent energy consumed. Renewable energy sources like wind power, solar energy biomass, hydroelectricity and biomass comprise 14 percent. Nuclear energy is 5 percent. Different countries use different sources of energy to meet environmental and economic requirements.
Nature provides energy in many forms such as wind, sun, waves and ocean. When harnessed and transformed into more efficient forms of energy, like electricity or heat, these are referred to as primary sources. These energy sources become non-renewable sources of energy when they are exhausted.
The environment is harmed by many fossil fuels as well as some other energy sources that aren't renewable. For example mining for oil could destroy the forests of the planet. Fracking (hydraulic fracture) can result in water pollution and earthquakes. Carbon dioxide is released when coal is burned which contributes to global warming.
Fortunately, many of the most promising sources of energy are renewable and sustainable. Hydropower, solar power and wind for instance, are able to generate electricity without the need to search for fresh supplies.
Tidal and Wave Power are the other sustainable energy sources that are emerging. However, in order to be utilized on a large scale they must have efficient distribution networks. This requires the use of non-renewable energy sources to construct these networks. These sources aren't enough to fulfill the majority of our energy needs. It's vital to remember that the cost of renewable energy equipment has drastically decreased in recent years and the efficiency of these equipments is growing.