How we use energy

We are very lucky and used to having a LOT of STUFF.

It hasn't always been this way - humans used to live a much more simple life before we built machines and factories capable of producing 'stuff' at affordable prices.

These days it is cheaper to buy a new 'thing' than get the old one fixed.

Where does the old one go?

Have a look at 'The Story of Stuff' animation that explains why we have SO much stuff and how it is damaging our planet.

Check out these other links to learn about energy and how we use it.

SO, we need some new ideas and we need to change our behaviour.

Take a look at the National Geographic round up of 'most hopeful energy developments for 2011'

Have a look at this clip from the Carbon Nation movie - even the US army is looking for alternative sources of energy because it makes sense, even if you're not convinced by climate science.

Feeling inspired...

Does this give you any ideas for your video or persuasive writing?

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A history of fossil fuels

Here's a quick overview of our energy history.

Watch the video to learn about the decisions we have made, and the consequences of our actions.

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Energy photo story

Where does our energy come from?

In Australia our energy comes from a range of different sources. When it's sunny, our solar panels soak up the rays and convert them into electricity.

Weather turning bad? Gale whipping up? Not to worry, that chilling breeze isn't just giving us pneumonia - it's turning the blades of wind turbines across the nation. Just a little too chilly? Maybe the heat from that coal we're burning can keep us warm. And if all else fails, there's always the prospect of nuclear energy in the future.

Check out the photo story of the sources of energy used in Australia by the Australian Popular Science website.