Vocabulary for Describing Energy and Natural Resources

Alternative energy: energy derived from sources other than fossil fuels, such as solar, wind, or hydropower
Carbon footprint: the total amount of greenhouse gas emissions produced by an individual, organization, or country
Conservation: the protection and preservation of natural resources
Energy efficiency: the reduction of energy use through changes in behavior and the use of technology
Fossil fuels: non-renewable energy sources such as coal, oil, and natural gas
Greenhouse gas: a gas that contributes to the greenhouse effect, including carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide
Hydro power: energy generated from the movement of water, typically in a dam
Natural gas: a fossil fuel that is primarily composed of methane
Renewable energy: energy derived from sources that are replenished, such as solar, wind, or hydropower
Solar power: energy generated from the sun’s radiation
Sustainability: the ability to maintain or preserve natural resources for future generations
Wind power: energy generated from the movement of air, typically through the use of wind turbines.