Admittedly, our society is highly dependently on fossil fuels like oil and coal to keep its vehicles, equipments and institutions running like well-oiled machines.  We all know, however, the toll to the environment that our dependence on fossil fuel has engendered and continues to engender.

We have all been glued to the news of the Gulf Coast oil spill, which seems to be catching up to the notoriety of the Exxon Mobil.  But oils spills are not just the ill effects of our dependence on fossil fuel.  We also have toxic runoffs, plastic products and other environmental disasters directly and indirectly attributable to fossil fuel and its many derivatives.

Beyond the negative environmental effects of fossil fuels, we also have to realize that it will run out sooner than later.  After all, it takes millions of years for oil and coal to form, which means that it is not exactly a renewable resource.

Fortunately, we have three renewable energy sources that are most likely to save humanity when the supply of fossil fuels does run out.  In fact, we are using these energy sources although only in very small quantities in comparison with fossil fuels.

Wind Power

Wind turbines have the windmills of the Dutch as their precursors, both of which convert wind energy into usable energy for human consumption.  These structures can be installed either in vast wind farms or in residential structures to augment the energy produced by the main electricity grid.

However, not every area in the country can avail of wind power given the existing technology.  A wind turbine is only good if and when it is located in a very windy area or in a place high above sea level.  Still, the benefits of wind turbines easily dwarf the initial difficulties of installation - these structures are almost noise-free, pollution-free and maintenance-free.

Solar Power

Now, this is one source of energy where it can be used almost anywhere in the world.  Contrary to popular notion, solar panels continue to generate energy even during the winter season if and when these panels are placed strategically in the southern corner of the building.

Solar power is now used in a variety of commercial, industrial and residential applications.  You can purchase solar-powered lights, water heater and other electrical appliances for the house.  You may also install solar panels in homes, offices and factories to provide power to electrical appliances at certain hours of the day and night.  You can even purchase solar hybrid cars!

Water Power

We all know that water can carve mountains, change the landscape and provide energy for our bodies.  With such power, it only goes to reason that water can be used to provide energy for our vehicles, machineries and appliances.

In fact, hydropower is now being used through dams and their turbines albeit the scale of service cannot rival that of fossil fuel at present.  As for vehicles, many inventors and investors are hard at work perfecting the water-powered car.

Indeed, we should not worry about our society shutting down with the dwindling supply of fossil fuel.  We have so many eco-friendly options just waiting to be discovered, all of which are as renewable or recyclable as can be.