8. Understanding Environmental Stressors in the Anthropocene: A Socio-Ecological Impact Assessment of Renewable Energy Pathways and Global Change Dynamics

This chapter considers the socio-ecological effects of the global transition to renewable energy with attention to the rich interplays among ecological processes, human health, and energy generation. With anthropogenic drivers remaining in the lead in Earth’s systems, the transition to renewable energy is both an opportunity and a challenge. The research evaluates emerging risks that are emerging in land use transformation, resource conflict, and social injustice in this transition. For example, the development of solar and wind power plants minimizes greenhouse gas emissions by as much as 40–50%, but at the same time causes habitat destruction, particularly in high-biodiversity areas, where solar farms and wind farms encroach agricultural or natural land use. Renewable energy technologies can result in resource overuse, particularly rare materials used for batteries and solar panels. This study proves that renewable energy can work for the environment but might result in problems if not well handled. For it to be sustainable, we must balance the environment, justice, and resilient communities simultaneously. Policymakers and energy planners must have a balanced policy that works for nature and society. This research provides concepts for developing cleaner energy systems that make the future more desirable for all.