As the transition to clean energy accelerates worldwide, a new debate has arisen regarding its environmental impacts and the issues surrounding clean energy. While the world shifts to clean energy, this process poses serious dangers to 4,642 vertebrate species. This startling fact, revealed by a new study, indicates that we need to open our eyes to these challenges.

The Clean Energy Issue: Solar Panels, Wind Turbines, and Electric Vehicles Threaten Over 4,000 Species

Global mineral extraction activities are threatening 4,642 vertebrate species, including fish, reptiles, amphibians, birds, and mammals. The extraction of minerals such as lithium and cobalt, which are essential for solar panels, wind turbines, and electric vehicles, endangers the world’s most valuable biodiversity areas. Mining activities to obtain these minerals impact not only the mining sites but also distant ecosystems through polluted waterways and deforestation.

Professor David Edwards from the University of Cambridge commented on the clean energy issue, stating, “We need to transition to clean energy, but this process often involves mining activities in regions with high biodiversity levels.” Researchers say that reducing freshwater pollution from mining would be an “easy win” to minimize biodiversity loss.

Who are the most affected by mining? Fish! A total of 2,053 fish species are harmed by these activities. Fish, reptiles, amphibians, birds, and mammals face this threat. Species living in freshwater habitats with limited living spaces are especially vulnerable.

Ieuan Lamb from the University of Sheffield commented on the clean energy issue, stating, “Limestone mining poses a real threat to wildlife. Many species can only live on limestone, and a cement mine can completely destroy their homes.” Imagine a mountain disappearing and taking with it all the creatures that live there.

Global demand for metal minerals, fossil fuels, and construction materials is rapidly increasing, leading to the rapid expansion of the mining sector. In 2022, the total revenue of this sector was estimated to be $943 billion. Unfortunately, this growth comes with environmental destruction.

Researchers urge governments and the mining industry to focus on reducing pollution. If we are to achieve our clean energy goals, we must manage this process with less harm to nature. While transitioning to clean energy, we must be careful not to trigger another environmental crisis. Fish, reptiles, birds, amphibians, and mammals—all are under our responsibility during this process.

What do you think? What do you think the solution is? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.