An overview of the sustainability of emerging energy technologies in mitigating climate change

Renewable energy Fossil fuel Carbon capture Climate change

Authors

  • Deven Barton
    dbarton5@atu.edu
    Department of Mechanical Engineering, Arkansas Tech University, 1811 N Boulder Ave, Russellville, AR, 72801, USA, United States
May 31, 2025

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The increasing reliance on fossil fuels has led to unprecedented levels of greenhouse gas emissions, environmental degradation, and public health risks. This paper explores renewable energy technologies and carbon capture methods as essential strategies for mitigating climate change and transitioning toward a low-carbon future. This paper evaluates the carbon emissions associated with various renewable sources, including solar, wind, hydropower, geothermal, and biomass, considering their full life cycles and regional variations. The paper also examines the role of carbon capture technologies, battery storage, smart grids, decentralized systems, and blockchain innovations in enhancing energy resilience and reducing emissions. While renewable energies significantly reduce carbon output compared to traditional fuels, the analysis highlights that no energy system is without environmental consequences. Policy support, technological advancements, and coordinated infrastructure improvements are identified as critical factors for successful large-scale adoption. Through integrated approaches that combine clean energy production, carbon management, and modernized energy systems, a sustainable and equitable energy transition is achievable.