Renewable Book Summary - Renewable Book explained in key points

Renewable summary

Jeremy Shere

The World-Changing Power of Alternative Energy

3.5 (16 ratings)
15 mins

Brief summary

'Renewable' by Jeremy Shere is a non-fiction book that explores the history, science, and ethics of renewable energy sources. It offers insights into the benefits and challenges of transitioning to a more sustainable energy system.

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    Renewable
    Summary of 8 key ideas

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    Key idea 1 of 8

    Fossil fuels are a finite resource and using them continually will jeopardize the climate and our energy security.

    In today’s energy debate, peak oil and climate change are perhaps the two most hotly contested topics.

    Peak oil refers to the point in time when the maximum amount of petroleum is extracted from the ground. After this point, it’s inevitable that the amount extracted will decline. The debate rages over how soon this point will be reached, with some parties claiming it’s right around the corner and others trying to assure us it won’t be reached for centuries.

    At the moment, though, there is convincing evidence that global oil production will hit its peak no later than the end of this century and begin to decline thereafter.

    Irrespective of the exact timing, peak oil will be reached at some point because the amount of fossil fuels on earth is limited. This means we must become less dependent on them so that the transition away from them will be smoother when fossil fuels do become scarce.

    The second hot topic today is climate change, where the debate revolves around whether human activity is at its root or not. The author himself believes that there is a pile of evidence the size of Mount Everest supporting the fact that humans are accelerating climate change, but he does not wish to convince anyone of that with this book.

    Instead, he emphasizes the necessity of transitioning our energy sources away from fossil fuels. If humanity continues to cling to fossil fuels even as their supply dwindles, it will require the use of increasingly risky extraction and energy production methods. These will surely have an environmental impact that will further accelerate climate change.

    But regardless of what one might think of the timing of peak oil or the causes of climate change, the fact is that fossil fuels are finite and humanity must transition away from them for the sake of energy security.

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    What is Renewable about?

    Renewable takes a look at today’s most promising renewable energy sources, examining their history and future potential. These blinks explain why it is inevitable that humanity will switch to mainly renewable sources of energy, regardless of opinions on controversial topics like climate change or peak oil.

    Renewable Review

    Renewable (2013) by Jeremy Shere is a fascinating exploration of our planet's renewable energy sources and why they are crucial for our future. Here's why this book is definitely worth a read:

    • Packed with compelling stories and real-world examples, it showcases how renewable energy is transforming our world and offers hope for a sustainable future.
    • Shere's in-depth research and clear explanations make complex topics accessible, empowering readers to understand and contribute to the renewable energy revolution.
    • By emphasizing the economic and environmental benefits of renewable energy, this book inspires readers to take action and explore the potential for a cleaner, greener future.

    Best quote from Renewable

    Like it or not, for several reasons ... coal will remain king for the foreseeable future. But energy is not a zero-sum game.

    —Jeremy Shere
    example alt text

    Who should read Renewable?

    • Anyone interested in the past, present and future of renewable energy
    • Anyone who cares about the environment
    • Anyone wondering how we’ll ever be able to transition away from fossil fuels

    About the Author

    Jeremy Shere is a science writer and journalist who also teaches at Indiana University in Bloomington.

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    Renewable FAQs 

    What is the main message of Renewable?

    The main message of Renewable is that renewable energy is crucial for a sustainable future.

    How long does it take to read Renewable?

    The reading time for Renewable varies depending on the reader's speed, but it typically takes several hours. You can read the Blinkist summary in just 15 minutes.

    Is Renewable a good book? Is it worth reading?

    Renewable is a worthwhile read for anyone interested in renewable energy. It provides valuable insights and raises awareness about the importance of sustainable solutions.

    Who is the author of Renewable?

    The author of Renewable is Jeremy Shere.

    What to read after Renewable?

    If you're wondering what to read next after Renewable, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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