Renewable Energy in Europe

Recently, over 500 politicians met for the 3rd European Renewable Energy Policy Conference in Brussels. They came to the consensus that “renewable energy will be the mainstream source of Europe’s energy supply by 2050.” (RenewableEnergyWorld.com) They decided that 80% of the energy used will come from renewable energy sources in 2050.

This decision is of considerable importance, and should be taken into consideration by the United States. The European Union has recognized that the European Renewable Energy Industry is providing thousands of new jobs, is cost efficient, and is working to reduce CO2 emissions. (RenewableEnergyWorld.com)

Each of these advantages to working on increasing the use renewable energy work well with Howard Gardners’ suggestions in his book Changing Minds. By working to reduce the amount of CO2 emissions, the EU is using reason to appeal to its citizens. Also, the idea of protecting the environment resonates with people. And furthermore, jobs and decreases in energy costs act as rewards for those who live and work in Europe.

If we use rewards, reason, and resonance to change the minds of those in our country, we might be able to switch over to using primarily renewable energy sooner.

Post by Alexandra West

“European Commission Projects 80% Renewable Energy by 2050.” RenewableEnergyWorld.com. N. p., 17 Nov. 2009. Web. 19 Nov. 2009, < http://www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/news/article/2009/11/european-commission-projects-80-renewable-energy-by-2050>.