Environmental Impacts of Emerging Energy Technology

Topic: Environmental Impacts of Emerging Energy Technology
Country: Belarus
Delegate Name: Colin Rensch
School: Mattawan High School

Ukraine has important economic ties to the Russian Federation, as well as the rest of Europe, and gets most of its nuclear energy, oil, and natural gas from the Russian Federation, but also has access to its own oil and natural gas within its borders. Ukraine is very interested in emerging energy technology as a way to reduce the country's consumption of fossil fuels and nuclear energy. Ukraine is also fully aware of the environmental impacts that such technology can pose. New energy technologies pose various threats to wildlife. The safety of birds and bats is greatly affected by wind energy, with 28,500 birds being killed by wind turbines each year. The safety of fish is also at stake in the case of hydroelectric installations in rivers. In many cases, hydroelectric power sites prohibit fish from getting to spawning locations. Hydroelectric power can also flood large areas of land when a dam is used in conjunction with the hydroelectric power station. Ukraine would like to see further scientific research into the reduction of the dangers that these emerging technologies can pose, and the development of new, safer technologies. Ukraine is ready to find solutions in order to protect its rich natural resources, and to further allow the use of these new energy technologies. Ukraine feels that any emerging technology would be safer for the environment than fossil fuels and nuclear energy. Ukraine is very interested in low cost solutions to this problem and will work with this committee to see that solutions are made.

Topic: Environmental Impacts of Emerging Energy Technology
Country: Brazil
Delegate Name: Cody Hoeffel
School: Royal Oak High School

Alternative sources of energy are being exploited everywhere by new technology. This technology has been create to reduce Man's impact on the environment. However, many of these technologies have their own negative impact on the environment. Electric cars for example, may reduce the need for oil in that the vehicles don't use it for propulsion, but oil is used to create the car bodies, the electricity fueling the car is almost always produced by a coal power plant, adding more greenhouse gases to the atmosphere as well as pollutants from the coal burning process. The lithium-ion batteries that are used in electric cars also pose an environmental hazard if disposed of improperly, it is a battery and as such it will release harmful substances into the earth when it does decompose. Wind turbines, dams, and large tidal power plants also damage the environment, they all have the potential to and have come close to endanger and possibly kill off species of birds, bats, and fish. Wind turbines also require a large area away from major population centers cleared and flattened, which is often woodland and other habitats, the destruction of which can have a major population on the local wildlife. This problem can be addressed by placing large turbines off the coast from nations minimizing the threat to nocturnal birds and bats, in addition smaller commercial turbines can be implemented in suburban areas. Such turbines are silent enough to run in cities and small enough to place on buildings as small as a residential home. Dams and some tidal power plants block the breeding grounds off from fish, dams especially, as they block off portions of rivers, changing the current and water temperature severely hampering the local fish. Buoy based tidal generators do not interfere with the aquatic ecosystem, as a result they produce less power, but are more numerous and is applicable in many locations. Brazil believes that these alternatives can begin to solve the problems of the so called green technologies, making them truly green. Brazil will seek to make use of the smaller wind turbines, these turbines and small buoy tidal power generators to help reduce the impact of electric vehicles without having a major impact on the local wildlife. The nation of Brazil seeks to uphold the goals of the Kyoto Protocols through these technologies and to focus on getting these technologies to the developing nations that need them most. Brazil seeks to implement the proper technologies in the proper places, reducing global carbon emissions and the potential threat of global warming as the Kyoto Protocol had started the effort without CCS (Carbon Capture Storage) technologies which do not aid the fight against this threat.

Topic: Environmental Impacts of Emerging Energy Technology
Country: China
Delegate Name: Ashley Sherman-Hay
School: Forest Hills Central High School

In the wake of the ever changing times coupled with the world's environmental changes at the forefront, a unified effort across the world is needed to integrate alternative energy production means into industrialization and decrease Greenhouse Gas effects, one of many contributing issues to the global environmental problem. Due to the People's Republic of China's fossil fuel utilization (and production) and carbon dioxide production, the nation surpassed the United States in recent years as the largest emitter of Greenhouse Gases. Serving as motivation for change, PRC has invested more money into renewable energy sources such as hydropower, solar power and wind power. This alteration in investments has placed China as a leader in renewable energy production. Considering this from both an economic and environmental standpoint, China has implemented aggressive energy policies and would like to see great increase in the use of energy conserving production methods. Sinopec and CNPC are fossil fuel production companies that are government owned, making the unification of standards much simpler than in an entirely capitalistic society.

In an effort to reduce Greenhouse Gas and carbon dioxide emissions, China would like to see all nations implement production methods including but not limited to: hydropower, solar power and wind power. China recognizes that combating this is not solely a national issue, but one the world must band together to resolve.

Theoretically speaking, the electric car is an excellent idea and if the Lithium-Ion battery that powers it can be manufactured, utilized and disposed of correctly, the battery will be far more warmly received. A majority of the economic burden prompted by the battery results from the manner in which it was charged. When charged by coal-based means, the battery's environmental effects increased by 13% and decreased by 40% when charged by means of hydropower. These statistics serve as proof for increasing environmentally beneficial energy production means.

Regarding the turbine related bird casualties, China realizes that in the event of an endangered species, while this may be detrimental to the population, each individual nations can take action if they feel this poses a great enough issue. If the turbines beneficially serve the nation and prompt safer and more efficient energy usage and the population losses do not strain populations this is an issue that can be considered at a later date.

Topic: Environmental Impacts of Emerging Energy Technology
Country: Denmark
Delegate Name: Ian Baker
School: Mattawan High School

Not too many years ago, oil appeared to be the way forward. Now, however, that is not not the case. Oil and other Carbon-emitting energy sources are being increasingly overtaken by newer, cleaner technologies such as nuclear and wind energy, to mention just two.

Denmark, like many other nations in the world, has turned heavily to these new technologies. For example, wind provides nearly 20% of Denmark's total energy production, and a large part is also imported via hydroelectricity from Norway and nuclear power from Germany. What one can clearly see is that these new, clean energy production means are of vital importance to Denmark.

Denmark does, however, accept that there are some environmental effects to these methods. For example, proper disposal and protection of nuclear waste is extremely important not only to protect our planet but also to ensure that these materials do not fall in the wrong hands. As such, Denmark is committed to proper regulation of these systems. Denmark, most likely along with many of its allies, would like to see that nuclear waste be properly regulated by the United Nations. Seeing no true danger to wind energy and thus no reason for regulation, Denmark does not wish to see the harnessing of wind energy restricted or controlled in any way; as can be clearly seen, this method is both environmentally safe economically effective.

Additionally, new battery powered vehicles have exploded onto the international market in recent years. Like wind energy, Denmark sees these as essential to powering the future and would like to see them produced in vast numbers. The safety of the batteries, like the safety of nuclear energy, should be a United Nations priority, however, and Denmark is fully committed to ensuring proper environmental safety for this excellent clean energy alternative.

Topic: Environmental Impacts of Emerging Energy Technology
Country: Egypt
Delegate Name: Claire Dennis
School: Roeper School

Over ninety-percent of the Arab Republic of Egypt’s energy consumption is provided by oil and natural gas. In recent years, oil consumption has eclipsed oil exports, making us reliant upon foreign resources. Egypt also faces relatively limited oil resources. These factors coupled with our concern for the environment make it crucial that our nation find new sources of energy besides fossil fuels. New possible renewable energy sources particularly promising to our nation are wind and solar energy. Egypt’s vast deserts are ideal for solar energy, and the Gulf of Suez is one of the most promising locations for global wind energy development.

Our nation has already begun to take advantage of the World Bank’s Clean Technology Fund, and intends to shift to 20% renewable energy sources by 2020. The Arab Republic of Egypt also views it as extremely advantageous from an economic perspective to invest in renewable energies, creating new sectors of industry for the production, distribution and development of green technologies. Egypt believes that while there are some drawbacks to new sources of energy, these are for the most part, not nearly significant enough compared to our nation’s dependency upon greenhouse gas producing fossil fuels.

Both wind and solar energy produce no air pollution and are overall excellent energy alternatives, however, there are small, indirect concerns. With solar energy, there are possibilities of small amounts of toxin production. Wind energy raises concerns of bird safety, however, these effects are slight and dependant upon a specific type of wind turbine in specific locations. On the whole, we believe that the drawbacks of these renewable energy sources are negligible compared to those of fossil fuels. The Arab Republic of Egypt believes that the development of renewable energy sources is vital to our economic and environmental development and that possible drawbacks are minimal in comparison to the severe environmental and economic effects of fossil fuel dependency.

Topic: Environmental Impacts of Emerging Energy Technology
Country: France
Delegate Name: Annalise Iraola
School: Saline High School

Recently, the nation of France has become increasingly concerned with the environment and ways to possibly create more environmentally friendly ways to find new energy solutions. Some solutions have been harnessed for the betterment of the planet, such as thermal solar, photovoltaic solar, wind, hydro-electric, geothermal, biomass, biofuels, fuel cells, energy management and biogas. However, with the new solutions come new dilemmas.

France’s involvement in environmental issues will be shown by the International Renewable Energies Exhibition, where various forms of renewable energy solutions will be represented. France will be hosting the (IREE) this year as it try’s to continue to find feasible solutions to forms of new energy possibilities. France an industrialized country, is relatively new to environmental polices. That being said France was one of the first countries to have a Ministry for the Protection of Nature and the Environment created in 1971. During 1970 through 1998 Frances main concerns were recovery and elimination of waste products, air quality, and energy management. These three main issues were combined and made into the Environment and Energy Management Agency (ADEME), which still continues to further research and resolve these issues.

The French Government plans to compose 21% of its electricity usage with renewable energy in 2010, to meet the European Directive with wind power representing 75% of that. However July 19,2010 France passed a new law known in English as “The French Green new Deal” covering various subjects one of them being wind turbine developments in France. In this new law, the building of wind turbines will be more complicated than in previous years. Also stated in this law onshore wind turbines higher than 50 meters are now also subject to a specific classified installation process (ICPE). Wind Turbines above 50 meters are not allowed if they are closer than 500 meters to inhabited or potentially inhabited areas. This law was developed to commence the proper building of quality wind turbine’s and limit further complications due to wind turbine placement. The National Research Council conducted a study last year that tallied bird kills and found that bird deaths due to wind turbines comprised a minute fraction of human interaction bird deaths. Although France is concerned with the possibility of bird deaths increasing, France thinks that it won’t affect the bird population more then other factors.

France’s Bollore Group has created a lithium battery that can power an electric car at a speed of up to 77 miles per hour with a range of 155 miles. Bollore Group has a joint venture with Italian carmaker Pininfarina for the production of electric cars. France is open to working with other nations on finding new ways to resolve the possible problems that may result from environmental productivity.

Topic: Environmental Impacts of Emerging Energy Technology
Country: Germany
Delegate Name: MacKenzie Rennick
School: Saginaw Arts and Sciences Academy

In our modern society, many nations such as Germany are blazing the trail in the development and deployment of renewable energy sources as well as improving the efficiency of the current fossil fuel-based system. When using these new systems, it is imperitive that we make sure that we aren’t doing more harm to the environment by using these “green” technologies.

Germany is well-known for being a leader in the production of green energy. Three of the five largest solar farms in the world operate inside Germany. We are heavily invested in wind power, and are currently forerunners in the project to place wind turbines offshore, increasing production by fifteen percent without substansive changes.

Due to our interest in these energy sources, it is necessary for Germany to investigate any problems that they might cause, and are pleased to find that there are not any conclusive problems with any of

the commonly used technologies.

The two largest complaints are that wind turbines lead to a sharp increase in the death of migratory birds, and that solar farms take up land space used by animals. To address the first issue, while there are increased amounts of avian death around wind turbines, there is no more difference than around tall buildings, and there are not enough casualties to have a significant effect upon a population. Second, while vast quantities of land are used for the placement of solar farms, proper surveying and reasonable judgment can be used to determine if an area is a nexus of migrating cows.

In closing, Germany is leading the way in enviromental technology, and we are confident that it is the right thing to do.

Topic: Environmental Impacts of Emerging Energy Technology
Country: Ghana
Delegate Name: Caleb Dugan
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

Many alternative sources of energy have been discovered in the past decades such as nuclear ion and lithium. All of these new sources of energy are highly probable and seem cost effective. There has been some skepticism on the overall total cost and effectiveness of these new power supplies. Many critics and skeptics wonder whether the end cost of the creation process of these new energy sources will really create a lesser spenditure on energy resources. As well as being cost effective theses new power supplies are usually much more “green” than the oil we use in our cars right now. The use of nuclear energy has been criticized for the possibility of nuclear waste that can be left behind after the battery or power supply has been expended; furthermore the disposal issue about nuclear waste has been called into to questioning. The effective use of energy that is longer lasting (such as lithium, ion and nuclear) and more cost effective can relieve the burden on many smaller countries struggling to find revenue to sustain their consumption of gas and electric energy. Also larger countries afraid of imposing on their boundaries in relation to GFC and carbon emissions can start to work toward a lower emission rate and not worry about being fined for their use coal and oil.

Ghana would like to see the UN effectively use the new energy resources found to the advantage of all countries that are willing to manufacture these more cost effective and green energy sources. A looming fear in all countries is the over use of natural and renewable resources. The use of lithium, ion and nuclear energy can be the first step to creating a “green” world.

Countries such as China and the United Kingdom would be fore runners in the use of these energy supplies. They exhibit interest in these new supplies of energy and have both started research and development as well. China has a booming population and the amount of car usage in china is outstanding in comparison to any other country. The United Kingdom does not have this same problem but wants to lean toward a healthier more eco-friendly energy source.

The United States had a run in with the electric car back in the 1980’s. these cars were very cost effective and on the front line of becoming very popular. For unknown reasons to the public these cars were reposed by the government and outlawed. The car buyers were upset and could not believe they government would take away such incredible invention of innovation. This leads me to believe the United States would be skeptical of the use of the electric car as a normal vehicle.

Topic: Environmental Impacts of Emerging Energy Technology
Country: Italy
Delegate Name: Tyler Bos
School: Forest Hills Northern High School

In recent years the world at large is coming away from the crude methods of obtaining energy of the past, such as oil, coal, and gasses, and into the new age of clean, renewable, and long-lasting energy sources. The Italian Republic plans to restart its nuclear energy program, after more than 20 years after it being scrapped by referendum in the wake of the Chernobyl disaster in 1986. Since that time we have become the world's biggest net importer of electricity. Our republic depends on oil and gas imports to meet more than 80% of its energy needs and its power prices are among the highest in Europe. We plan to build nuclear power stations to reduce the country's dependence on foreign oil and gas. Our Italian power company, ENEL, and their French counterpart, the EDF, agreed upon a deal to study the feasibility of building four power stations in Italy, signed on 24 February 2009. These will replace those plants closed in the wake of the Chernobyl disaster. Thanks to France making available its knowledge of nuclear reactor technology we will save several years and start the construction of nuclear plants in a limited amount of time. Building this group of new-generation nuclear power stations will reduce our country’s reliance on oil and gas. However, there it is thought that there is still a strong public opposition to nuclear energy, and it is not clear how we will override the 1987 referendum that followed the Chernobyl disaster.

This being said it is of the utmost importance to the people of Italy that we explore more deeply into emerging renewable and clean energy sources such as: Wind, Hydro-Electric, Concentrated Solar Power, and various Biofuels. Currently nearly all of these emerging technologies are represented in Italy on a much smaller scale than that of coal, oil, and gas energy sources. Italy wishes to see an expansion of these industries in not only the Italian Republic but throughout the European Union and around the world as well.

As for the impacts of emerging energy technologies on the environment, particularly the impacts of wind turbine technology on bird populations and the proper care in acquiring material and the disposal of Lithium Ion batteries that are used in electric cars. It is estimated that in the United States there are a mere 6,000 birds killed in incidents involving wind turbines a year while there were 4,300 bird-aircraft collisions listed by the United States Air Force and 5,900 by US civil aircraft in 2003, as well there must be thousands of more incidents that go unreported and throughout other countries with extensive air programs. Obviously this matter is nothing to simply brush off, however the technology does not present a major threat against a bird population. If you were to take the total bird population in the United States of areas with wind turbines you would realize that 6,000 is an infinitesimal percentage of the total population and puts little strain on the population at large.

Likewise Lithium Ion batteries pose a very serious dilemma. Firstly: how can we safely mine the materials necessary for making the batteries?, secondly: What will be done with the spent batteries, will they be recycled or how can they be handled in order not to damage environmental stability? The first problem can be appeased by the answer to the second. If we were to mine a small amount to produce new batteries and continually recycle spent batteries to make new batteries we could stop the pollution of our environment from the dangerous chemicals inside Lithium Ion Batteries and lessen our impact through mining.

Topic: Environmental Impacts of Emerging Energy Technology
Country: Japan
Delegate Name: Ishija Johnson
School: Flint Southwestern Classical Academy

The Kyoto protocol was enforced in 2005, but it was adopted in 1997. This requires industrialized countries to reduce the amount of greenhouse gases (GHG) released (for example Japan has to lower the amount of gases released by 6%). The Kyoto Protocol also caused many big changes in European in industrialized nations. Those involved in it are committed to reducing the release of greenhouse gases. We see this as an important first step in controlling greenhouse gases. The adaption fund was founded to help programs/projects dealing with going green run by countries involved in the Kyoto protocol. In 1989, the Water Pollution Control Law (WPCL) was amended to prohibit the infiltration of, waste water contaminated by heavy metals and hazardous chemicals. In 1991, we established environmental quality standards (EQS) for soil. The first soil protection law enacted here was the Agricultural Land Soil Pollution Prevention Law (ALSPPL), this was because of the breakout of the “itai – itai – disease” (“it hurts – it hurts – disease”)

Currently we are the world’s 4th highest spender on going green (global green stimulus spending). The recent launch of the International Partnership for the Satoyama Initiative (an international platform for all organizations engaged in integrating conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity in production landscapes). This partnership includes conserving Forests and Agricultural land; these areas are threatened because of many things (urbanization, industrialization, and changing patterns of rural populations). Measures are required to promote and strengthen the conservation of globally significant biodiversity in landscapes outside of protected areas. Broader global recognition the GEF (global environmental foundation) Biodiversity Focal Area Strategy, together with other ongoing partnership programs, including the GEF Small Grants Program and the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund, continue to focus on mainstreaming biodiversity

In a resolution we would like to see even “greener” industrialized countries, much less greenhouse gases released. As well as, cleaner fuels, renewable energy sources (wind power, solar power, water power, etc.). We want other countries to have higher standards with littering, and to encourage recycling and composting. We will also increase our standards as other countries increase theirs.

Topic: Environmental Impacts of Emerging Energy Technology
Country: Lebanon
Delegate Name: Danielle Dow
School: Forest Hills Eastern High School

During the past 10 years, the world has become ever more aware of the dwindling supply of crude oil, gasses, and coal which has been some of our primary sources of energy. According to the United States Energy Information Administration, the total world demand on a daily basis for oil was 86.36 million barrels per day for the second quarter in the year 2010. Scientists have become more interested in investigating alternative energy sources such as wind turbines and electric cars. While these energy sources are effective in reducing CO2 emissions and the use of gasoline, they also are dangerous and deadly to bird populations (the former) and uses lithium ion batteries (the latter) which can be harsh on our environment. Measures have been taken to reduce harmful environmental effects, such as the Kyoto protocol, in which over 40 countries have agreed to reduce 4 greenhouse gases and 2 other types if gases. Lebanon is sure that there are also other measures that the United Nations can take to make energy technology more efficient and reliable for countries around the world. As Lebanon does not have any major sources of domestic energy, we import almost 99% of our energy. This makes the development of other, less costly energy sources crucial, yet we would like to have the impact that these sources have on the environment to be less devastating and more reliable than those sources that they would replace.

Lebanon would like to encourage this committee to develop ways in which cleaner, more reliable energy sources can become even more efficient. While Lebanon does not believe that there is a 100% truly clean energy source, we believe that more research can be don on existing more efficient sources of energy such as biofuel, solar energy, and wind energy. Lebanon has the natural resources to provide renewable energy sources, but lacks the funds, so Lebanon would like to include funding for energy-lacking countries for energy development to the agenda. As Lebanon is in close proximity to many oil producing countries, we would also hope to explore the option of helping ease these economies into a time when oil is no longer used as a primary source and the demand goes down drastically. These countries need to realize that renewable energy is more cost efficient and safer on the environment that the oil that they produce and developing those resources in their own countries would help them with the transition once oil becomes inaccessible.

Lebanon will be in support of any countries which hope, as we do, to develop clean energy sources with as little impact on the environment as possible. Those countries that share our views on the necessary actions for the United Nations also have Lebanon’s support.

Any countries which believe that further development of renewable energy sources or who do not believe that reducing the environmental impact of such energy sources are relevant to this committee are not on the same side as Lebanon on this issue.

Topic: Environmental Impacts of Emerging Energy Technology
Country: Morocco
Delegate Name: Samantha Pollee
School: Mattawan High School

Africa is sometimes viewed as a continent that is not invested in newer technologies. However, as a West African country, the Kingdom of Morocco advocates the advancement of emerging energy technologies. In May of 2007, it became the first country of the Arab League to focus on advancing energy, with much of governmental funding put towards wind and solar forms. Even though it only accounts for around 14% of its energy, Morocco has made its largest strides in the area of wind. In the 1980’s, the Centre for the Development of Renewable Energy was created in efforts to promote wind energy, with assistance from USAID. With this plan, its most profitable regions were mapped out in the north and west of the country. Within ten years, the first wind farm was created in the north, with the help from German investors, costing upwards of US$60 million. Soon after, two more wind farms were created, and in the future, more are predicted to pop up around the year 2012. In addition, Africa’s largest wind farm is estimated to be finished by 2020. According to an engineer for the CDER, "the 1990s were devoted to prospection and preparation, the 2000s saw the installation of the first wind farms, and the 2010s should be home to scaling". With this quote, it is easy to see how wind has become one of Morocco’s greatest achievements in recent years. Not only are wind farms showing up in areas that are advanced such as the USA, but also they are forming in areas that are thought of as less developed.

Some, however, feel that wind energy may have negative effects on the environment. For example, on average, wind turbines kill 6,000 birds per year in the USA. Along with this issue, property values decrease where wind farms are located, and taxes may possibly create a problem for state and local governments. Also, tourism may be affected in some areas. For wind energy receiving so much praise and glory for its progress and positive effects, this eco-friendly technique seems to have flaws along with it. Morocco, however, believes that these instances are of less importance than the encouraging results. The overall effects of wind energy are more harmful than helpful.

Regarding lithium ion batteries as a replacement for CO2 emissions, there are victories as well as downfalls for the new technologies. The negative effects include the release of chemicals once they are thrown away, and obtaining the lithium carbonate. China, Bolivia, and Argentina are right now the largest producers of lithium, and drilling for these resources is a major issue because of the manner in which they are taken. The positives for this alternative are that it substantially decreases the emissions of carbon dioxide, so it is not polluting the air as much. This factor is so great that it overpowers the negatives. If lithium batteries are recycled and reused, then that would greatly decrease the problem of thrown away batteries and the chemicals involved. As Morocco is not included among the top producers, it is not as much of an issue for the country; it prefers to favor the advancement of wind technologies instead. However, Morocco is in agreement to help the world become less reliable on CO2.

Overall, the Kingdom of Morocco is extremely invested in the advancing technology of energy methods, especially wind power. Wind is a crucial part of the country’s efforts to decrease CO2 emissions, and it the leading creator of wind farms in Africa. Lithium batteries also affect the environment, and Morocco strives to do anything to help the environment. Environmental effects should be a main concern of the United Nations, and Morocco is in complete favor of proposing alternatives to CO2 emissions, mainly throughout the use of wind energy.

Topic: Environmental Impacts of Emerging Energy Technology
Country: Netherlands
Delegate Name: Rachel Jacobi
School: Ann Arbor Community High School

The Kingdom of the Netherlands is greatly concerned about the impacts of the switch to alternative energies; however the Netherlands notes with even deeper concern the astronomical effects in which global climate change, if continued insures. As one of the world’s largest natural gas fields is located within Netherlands, this issue has become of key importance. A Renewable Energy Sources (RES) policy agreed on by the European Union (in 2007) calls for all EU countries to reduce the effects of global climate change by increasing the amount of renewable energy resources used within each country’s borders. The Netherlands plans to use its great biomass and wind farming capacity to accomplish a goal of having 14% of their energy come from renewable energy sources. However rising concerns about the effects to wildlife due to emerging energy technologies has called Netherland’s attention to this issue. Migrating bird populations are affected by wind turbines, and by covering the ground with solar panels, flora cannot grow. The Netherlands believes in researching the negative effects emerging technology poses more thoroughly, though the greater problem of global warming must also weigh in on how harmful these new technologies are.

As part of the Environmental Committee, Netherlands will take a strong stance to protect the environment, and move towards alternative energy sources. As a fellow United Nations member, the Netherlands urges other countries to invest in renewable resources, while keeping in mind any unintentional impacts caused.

Topic: Environmental Impacts of Emerging Energy Technology
Country: Norway
Delegate Name: Jacklyn Snoek
School: West Ottawa High School

Norway is working at the moment very hard to improve their methods of producing cleaner, safer, environmentally friendly energy. Recently, they have found a location on the Norwegian Shelf to store CO2. They are hoping that they idea to safely prevent CO2 from escaping into the atmosphere will become a profitable industry for their economy. However, the CO2 if possibly escaped would harm the whale population, which they rely on for the whaling companies. The CO2 confuses the whales and lowers the frequency that they can hear at. This results in the increase of beached whales and dolphins. Also the CO2 kills the krill that the whales depend on for food. If they do not have enough food the whales will not reproduce and die from starvation. They have also been the lead in having offshore wind turbines. Other nations are using their example to help bring their nations to becoming environmentally friendly with find a renewable source of energy. However over the years more and more birds have been running into the turbines, being killed. Researchers have visited the turbines and found on average about nine birds a year killed by one turbine. Some of these birds are actually endangered.

This is merely and introduction to the argument I will be making at the conference next Wednesday. I look forward to meeting all of the other delegates to discuss the issues that our environmental groups will be discussing. This is my first Model United Nations conference, so I’m excited. Thank you!

Topic: Environmental Impacts of Emerging Energy Technology
Country: Philippines
Delegate Name: Michael Zeng
School: Northville High School

The Republic of the Philippines advocates the research of the effects and of the continued development of emerging technology and further believes that alternative and renewable sources of energy that emit less pollutants, such as solar energy, wind power, hydroelectric power, and ethanol, should be implemented much more often in developed and developing countries globally with set guidelines. Even if these technologies have other side effects, the Republic of the Philippines believes that the advantages of this move will severely outweigh the disadvantages. By implementing these energy sources, the Republic of the Philippines believes that global emissions will decrease, each country will lessen energy dependence on foreign nations, and that new jobs will be created in the renewable industry.

As the Republic of the Philippines however, we are opposed to the development of nuclear energy. Nuclear power plants can cause health problems in the general vicinity and in workers at the plant. This is not the only cause for concern. As shown by the previous Chernobyl accident, a nuclear accident is not only dangerous and globally felt, but also costly in lives and in monetary value. Of further concern is the nuclear waste produced by a plant. Exposure to waste can also lead to health concerns. Considering that half-lifes of nuclear waste can reach thousands of years, such as Pu-239 which has a half-life of 24,110 years, eventual accumulation will lead to huge amounts of nuclear waste and increased health risk. Safer and cleaner alternatives offer a long term solution that is not only safer but usually more tolerated by local populations.

Other side effects have come with the development of alternative energy. Wind turbines are shown to kill an average of 6000 birds a year in the United States. This is indeed a problem as if wind turbines are to be implemented as environmentally-friendly globally this would become a problem. A larger amount of wind turbines around the world would lead to a significant increase in bird deaths. Over time bird populations could come to be affected by such problems as population decrease. The Republic of the Philippines believes however, that further development and research may lead to new and innovative solutions to this problem.

As for lithium ion batteries, the Republic of the Philippines believes that they pose a new problem. There are issues regarding the obtaining of lithium and the disposal of the actual battery. Mining of lithium should be done under stricter safety regulations and recycling of lithium ion batteries may lead a lesser demand for these batteries. We must also keep in mind however, that while recycling these batteries is a viable and agreeable solution to battery disposal therein lays the problem of having the population of the country recycle their batteries. By increasing awareness of recycling lithium ion batteries however, the Republic of the Philippines believes that we can resolve this problem.

To summarize, the Republic of the Philippines believes strongly in the research into and development of emerging energy excluding dangerous energy sources such as nuclear energy. The Republic of the Philippines believes in alleviating negative side effects due to emerging energy and thinks additional research and development can resolve current and future problems.

Topic: Environmental Impacts of Emerging Energy Technology
Country: Saudi Arabia
Delegate Name: Sydney Young
School: Northville High School

The government of Saudi Arabia believes the effects of emerging technology do not need to be extensively studied, researched, or dealt with. One reason behind their stance on emerging technology is the fact that new forms of energy production and other advances do not see widespread global use; only 2.7% of the world's energy in 2008 came from new types of energy such as wind energy and solar energy. The majority of the world still runs on fossil fuels such as oil and coal. Thus, the problem of over 6,000 birds dying in the US due to wind turbines in is relatively minor compared to the effect of BP’s oil spill on the wildlife of the U.S.'s Gulf coast. As for the lithium ion battery, the majority of environmental impact lies with methods for charging the battery. Charging a lithium ion battery with electricity produced via fossil fuels causes a different impact compared with using solar energy to charge the battery. The two major environmental impacts of a lithium ion battery itself are how the lithium is obtained and how it is disposed. Countries that use the majority of lithium ion batteries should be required to set up environmentally safe ways to dispose of them or, preferably, recycle them. If a country plans to mine lithium, they should have proper environmental safety ordinances, as lithium is a corrosive metal. Furthermore, breathing lithium dust can cause lung problems, so the safety of miners should also be taken into account. In conclusion, Saudi Arabia believes that the effects of emerging technology and energy production are minor, but is in support of regulations which protect the environment.

Topic: Environmental Impacts of Emerging Energy Technology
Country: South Africa
Delegate Name: Michael Sienko
School: Williamston High School

The major issue involved with the Environmental Impacts of Emerging Energy Technology is that some of these new “green technologies” may hurt the environment more than help the environment. We, the country of South Africa, push for green technologies but wants’ the technology to be for beneficial to the environment and not more expensive alternatives that are not good for the environment. We believe in clean, efficient, and sustainable energy.

We think that the new energy technologies are not acceptable and do not help the cause of helping the environment. We would like to have the world’s top scientist to come together through the United Nations and talk until a reasonable solution is found to solve this. We would like new revolutionary ideas that help the environment without affecting the growth and development of cities and countries.

Also South Africa has many species of important animals that we would like to preserve and have thrive. The only way we would support any environmental solutions is if it protects our precious

animals.

Lastly south Africa would like new forms of energy other then harmful lithium batteries that are costly and harmful to the environment. We think that these new ideas of cars running on batteries would be a good because it would add to current pollution and energy crisis. South Africa would like to see top scientist and engineers cum together and create new responsible energy forms.

Topic: Environmental Impacts of Emerging Energy Technology
Country: South Korea
Delegate Name: Abir Azeem
School: Forest Hills Central High School

The Republic of Korea believes that we should continue pursuing alternative energy as a source of power, because is vital to our planet’s well-being. The shift from oil and coal to other sources of energy has become more and more evident as time goes by. Oil and coal harm the environment, and the use of these other forms of energy is on the rise. Their effects on the environment are undesirable and pollute the planet. Just like everything, these other sources of energy also have their share of impacts on the environment. Our government believes that the United Nations should enact laws limiting the amount of these types of energy that countries should be able to use so as not to harm our world irreparably.

One problem encountered with a form of emerging energy technology has to do with lithium ion batteries. If these batteries are recyclable, then the problem is lessened.

Countries that would support this would be the United Kingdom, China, and the United States. China would support this because their energy use is enormous, as it has the largest population in the world. The United States and United Kingdom would support this because their policies involve lowering CO2 emissions. These countries have already shown a shift towards other forms of energy, and

Countries that would not want to use alternative energy are third-world countries and oil-producing countries. Oil producing countries would lose income, and third-world countries’ starvation rates would skyrocket, due to farmers using their farms for the more lucrative option of farming crops for biofuels rather than crops for food.

Topic: Environmental Impacts of Emerging Energy Technology
Country: Turkey
Delegate Name: Mete Odabasi
School: Roeper School

The Republic of Turkey feels it is necessary to have international, collective responsibility for preserving the environment. Energy is a strong tool in fighting poverty. Sustainable development can only be achieved if a secure, uninterrupted, reliable and affordable energy supply is ensured. One has to find the balance between sustainability and producing energy to an amount that ensures social welfare and economic growth. Governments should develop new policies to reverse the upward trends in greenhouse gas emissions. Fossil fuel energy should be replaced with more renewable forms of energy; this shift needs some time and can’t be done overnight.

Two key points are to achieve sustainable energy development and energy efficiency. The Republic of Turkey is putting a major effort into developing safe technologies, including solar, wind, and geothermal sources. Also, while often criticized for its problems, Turkey believes in safe nuclear technologies, within the IАЕА norms and NPT obligations, respecting the right to peaceful use of nuclear energy.

The Republic of Turkey believes that renewable energy can lead to an environmental and economical win-win situation. Turkey supports investments into new energy technologies. Undeveloped counties should be given monetary support so that they can invest in new technology, and make this technology the basis of their development power, so that they can have “green growth” as the Republic of Korea has tried to promote as a main UN policy the past several years.

In closing, the Republic of Turkey is ready to take steps in the direction of more environmental sustainability, but this problem has to be solved as a team because it concerns every human being on this planet.

Topic: Environmental Impacts of Emerging Energy Technology
Country: Ukraine
Delegate Name: Annie Kidder
School: Saginaw Arts and Sciences Academy

As the world moves toward clean and renewable energy sources, Ukraine is eager to move with it. One of Ukraine’s particular focus’ on renewable energy is wind power. Increasing the use and production of wind power has been a priority since 1996. However, in Ukraine, there are also possibilities for biomass energy, solar energy, geothermal energy, and hydroelectric energy. Unfortunately, Ukraine hasn’t been able to fully expand production of any of these clean energy resources due to a lack of financing.

However, it is not only the cost of implementing such programs that poses a problem. Many renewable and cleaner energy sources have unexpected side effects that can potentially be harmful to the environment, such as possible negative impact on bird population caused by wind turbines, or the disposal of lithium ion batteries from electric cars. However, Ukraine believes that these problems are currently relatively minor, especially in comparison to certain other environmental disasters we are dealing with right now, such as the BP oil spill. Furthermore, even with these emerging flaws, these green energy sources remain better for the environment than the crude energy sources that were used before them, and are still used. Though Ukraine would like to discourage time spent discussing this topic at this time, we are most certainly not opposed to furthering research on prevention of these problems as the use of green energy becomes more widespread.

Currently, in the United States, it is estimated that wind turbines will cause the death of 6,000 birds a year. This will have little effect on the bird population. Another issue regarding emerging energies is the disposal of lithium ion batteries from electric cars. These can be quite harmful to the environment if disposed of improperly. Ukraine advises that programs to safely recycle or dispose of these batteries are implemented.

Ukraine believes that this matter is not pressing at the time. Emerging problems in new energy sources are overshadowed by the worse problems in traditional energy sources, and other current environmental disasters. However, these problems could worsen as the use of green energy becomes more widespread. Conclusively, Ukraine advises that the United Nations does not currently take drastic measures, but rather keeps an eye on the problem.

Topic: Environmental Impacts of Emerging Energy Technology
Country: United Kingdom
Delegate Name: Rachel Finkelstein
School: Williamston High School

On April 8, 2010 UK parliament passed Energy Act 2010. This act is requiring four projects to be made by electrical companies in order to capture carbon and store it safely. The act also plans to fund research for clean coal technologies, renewable energy, and distributed generation. The UK would like better energy sources in order for its people to live in healthily. In 2015 the UK plans to install wind technology into its land. The United Kingdom wants energy that is sustainable, secure, and affordable. The way that the UK plans to do this is by using the environment to reduce energy use, making electrical equipment more efficient and effective and with carbon capture.

The UK along with other nations signed a response to the Kyoto Protocol agreed to lower their energy by using renewable energy. This was decided on the amount of renewable energy already being used within the country and its per capita GDP. The UK Government has agreed to several binding emissions reduction targets: 12.5 per cent Green House Gases (GHGs) from 2008–2012 (Kyoto Protocol), 34 per cent CO2 by 2020 (Budget 2009 – increased from 26% in Climate Change Act 2008), and 80 per cent GHGs by 2050 (Climate Change Act 2008). However the government requires that there is a regularly updated program that looks at the impacts of these new energy sources on the environment and to address those risks as a country. The UK believes that the UNFCCC laid guidelines for new energies to emerge and that each country should deal with the risks singly.

Topic: Environmental Impacts of Emerging Energy Technology
Country: United States
Delegate Name: Andrew Boland
School: Forest Hills Central High School

Emerging energy technology is providing an ever growing world more methods to produce energy. Luckily the overwhelming majority of these new technologies are designed with the intent to lower the environmental impact of energy production. In the United States and many countries around the world, governments have taken bold initiatives and invested large sums of money in emerging energy technologies. Wind turbines, solar panels, electric cars, and all lack CO2 emissions which are highly harmful to the environment. We believe that these new technologies are an integral part of the future of global power generation and will be an important part of the global economy.

The United States would implore the United Nations to encourage countries to invest in emerging energy technologies. We believe that a shift away from fossil fuels helps protect the integrity of the environment. Furthermore, lowering CO2 emissions will help the world combat global climate change. The problem of course is the side effects of these new technologies. Bio fuels raise global food prices, wind turbines kill birds, and batteries are difficult to dispose of. We would recommend that it be left up to private industry to deal with these problems. There are countries in the world willing to accept hazardous waste materials for a fee, and food prices are a natural function of the market that will be correct if they go too high. New technology and innovation is a product of market style economies and will better new energy technologies and remove potentially adverse effects in the coming years.

States that are willing to support the further advancement of Emerging Energy Technologies are states that are currently dependent on other states for energy. Importing energy is an enormous drain on countries economies so it is highly beneficial for states to find methods of domestic production. Furthermore, states who are taking climate change and the environment seriously will also be drawn to new technologies because of the benefits in those realms.

States in opposition are likely to be third world nations and oil exporters. Oil exporters will find that they face competition from other energy sources that will undercut their profitability. Third world states will find the rise in food prices- due to bio fuels- to be unacceptable, as it will dramatically increase starvation in parts of Asia and Africa.

Topic: Environmental Impacts of Emerging Energy Technology
Country: Venezuela
Delegate Name: Andrea Clinton
School: Royal Oak High School

The country of Venezuela recognizes the increasing emergence of new energy technologies. However, as a major producer of oil, and oil being our primary export, we have kept our focus on fossil fuels, and not put as much emphasis on emerging technologies. Oil is still the world’s primary source for energy, consuming 169 quadrillion BTU’s of energy in the year 2006 alone, accounting for 35.9% of the total of world primary energy production. In that same year, hydroelectric, nuclear, geothermal, solar, wind, wood, and waste energy combined produced a fraction of that amount, totaling 62 quadrillion BTU’s. Venezuela considers this as key evidence showing that trying to shift away from fossil fuels, especially oil, would be an impossible task in the near future, especially with the number of developing nations with increasing demand for cars and technologies which run on fossil fuels. Therefore, although emerging energy technologies lead to reduced emissions of CO2, we should put more focus on ensuring the safety and efficiency of sources of energy like oil and other fossil fuels.

Still, Venezuela believes that whatever “green” technologies already in place should be as safe and efficient as possible, leading to minimal damage to the environment and those inhabiting it. Though Venezuela regrets the statistic that 6000 birds are annually killed in the United States by wind turbines, we believe that more lasting and negative effects can occur from improper and unsafe methods of obtaining oil. The recent BP oil spill has accounted for at least 4,768 death of local wildlife, and the damaging of the home of over 8,300 species of wildlife. The Exxon Valdez oil spill led to the deaths of nearly 225,000 birds.

On the topic of lithium, we must consider the safest ways for it to be mined because of its corrosive nature. We also must question the best way to dispose of it. Is recycling the only environmentally safe option, or are there other ways to dispose of them without negatively impacting the environment? Also, how can we charge lithium batteries with minimal impact on the environment? Even if we work to make methods of obtaining, disposing, and charging lithium safer, it would be very hard for developing nations to fund research for projects like these. Though foreign countries could offer their donations and aid, Venezuela feels that the most efficient way to get developing nations on the right track in producing more efficient energy sources is if they themselves learn how to obtain, manufacture, and implement these technologies without having to rely as much on other nations.