ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF FOSSIL FUEL, NUCLEAR ENERGY,

OCEAN WAVE ENERGY AND BIOMASS POWER PLANTS

A Case Study

Presented to the Faculty of Electrical Engineering

Bicol State College of Applied Sciences and Technology

Naga City

In Partial fulfillment

of the Requirements to the Degree

of Electrical Engineering

Proponents:

STO. DOMINGO, JOHN LLOYD O. AMORIN, JECCHA SHEE E.

RULL, CATHERINE C. BIGTAS, CRIS BENEDICK B.

BORAGAY, CATHERINE D. LATINAZO, EMMANUEL Z.

ENGR. JAIRUS JORI JOHN F. LUNA

Environmental Science and Engineering Instructor

MAY 2023
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The researchers would like to express their deepest gratitude to the following people

that contributed for the accomplishment of this study:

To the authors of various research studies who published readings, research analysis,

and environmental impact assessments online. Without them, the research paper won’t be

completed, their research paper had been the basis and foundation for this case study presented

to the faculty of the Department of Electrical Engineering and College of Engineering and

Architecture.

To their peers, block mates, and friends who assisted the researchers in writing,

evaluating, and assessment of this research paper. Their ceaseless support, assistance, and

advice throughout the publication of this research paper.

To Engr. Jairus Jori John F. Luna, their Environmental Science and Engineering

adviser, who assisted the researchers on the proper ethics of writing a research paper and guided

them throughout this paper.

To their parents for the never-ending support, inspiration, encouragement, and love;

and,

To Almighty God for enlightenment, spiritual presence throughout the tough times, for

making hard times easier and troubles lighter in the course of this study.

To them all, the researchers sincerely extend their gratitude and appreciation.

The Researchers

ii
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

PRELIMINARY PAGES PAGE NO.

Title Page i

Acknowledgement ii

Table of Contents iii

List of Tables iv

CONTENTS

Executive Summary 1

Introduction 2

Objectives 7

Data Collected 7

Data Analysis 19

Justification/ Predicted Outcome 27

Conclusions and Recommendations 37

References 48

iii
 LIST OF TABLES

Table No. Title Page No.

1 Data collected for fossil 7

fuel power plants.

2 Data collected for nuclear 8

power plants.

3 Data collected for ocean 10

wave energy power
plants.

4 Data collected for 11

biomass power plants.

5 Possible solution of 12
reducing fossil fuel power
plant environmental
impact.

6 Possible solution of 15
reducing nuclear energy
power plant
environmental impact.

7 Possible solution of 16
reducing ocean wave
energy power plant
environmental impact.

8 Possible solution of 19
reducing biomass power
plant environmental
impact.

iv
Executive Summary

Energy has been one of the main components of development around the world. The fast

development has resulted in a much wider need for energy, resulting in the research of various

sources of energy. As the development of various energy sources, from non-renewable to

renewable sources of energy, it is found out that these sources highly affect the overall

environment with its functionality and capabilities. Through this research paper, with the aim

of identifying the environmental impacts of Fossil Fuel, Nuclear Energy, Ocean Wave Energy,

and Biomass, the solutions are also presented through cross referencing from other researchers.

From the research review analysis of various papers, it is found that the most affected in the

implementation of these sources of energy are the flora and fauna of the area. The energy

sources are able to alter the behavioral pattern as well as the living capabilities of the plants

and animals found around the area, some resulting in the death of the environment. It is

recommended from the researches reviewed that design schemes of each energy source be

altered by using different types of technology and schemes. While there is other research that

recommends the utilization of remediation technology to reduce the effects to the environment.

It is also recommended by the researchers to have a further study on the various sources of

energy to understand the environmental impacts and its countermeasures. Furthermore, it is

recommended by the researchers to have a cross research with other sources for a hybrid

solution.

1
Introduction

Energy has been viable to the lives of the human population. In contemporary times,

energy efficiency and energy consumption are considered as an active research topic with the

aim of systematizing energy utilization as much as possible. Another problem that correlates

to energy are its sources, as most of the world has unbalanced and unavailable resources

between nations. Through these problems, deeper thought and research in these fields of energy

sources and alternatives are studied (Alrwashdeh, 2022). Such examples of energy sources that

are being researched at this time of energy crisis are Fossil Fuel, Nuclear Energy, Biomass and

Ocean Wave Energy.

In the 2020 statistics, the World Bank identified burning fossil fuels (coal, gas and oil)

as the primary dominating supply energy source in many countries around the globe. Such

sources of energy have brought about many changes to the global climate, mostly impacting

weather patterns. At the same time, the generation and conversion of electricity has caused

severe environmental impacts since the 1980’s (Gani, 2021).

In fact, the recent historical energy-related CO2 emissions globally have put the USA's

transportation sector to the spotlight of this topic. With the sector having a significantly high

carbon footprint emission, investigations on the impact of fossil fuel energy usage and

economic growth have been studied thoroughly (Umar et. al, 2021).

The air pollution made by the majority of energy sources can lead to mortality from

diseases on cardiovascular, respiratory, and other systems. Significant death rates caused by

fossil fuels are usually found on combustion emissions from traffic, power generation, and

industry found in densely populated areas. The likelihood of this event has caused the Paris

Agreement which aims in limiting climate change in the 21st century, which in turn aims on

the phase-out of fossil fuels as the main source of energy (Lelieveld et.al, 2019).

2
 With the essential role of energy to the development processes of the 21st century,

energy sustainability and environmental quality has also been affected. With the carbon

emission of fossil fuels, many countries have decided to explore other sources of energy as

fossil fuel has also become scarcer through time. With the demand, many nations have decided

to explore other sources of energy such as renewable and nuclear energy. With the potential of

both renewable and nuclear energy, the energy sources are expected to provide solutions related

to energy security and climate change (Ozcan and Ulucak, 2020).

Significantly, the usage of nuclear energy can aid in the problems of climate change.

Aside from being able to generate electricity, nuclear energy can beat ecological issues and

help in improving and maintaining environmental sustainability. Notably known for its low

carbon outflow, nuclear energy is highly suitable as an alternative for fossil fuel. However, it

also comes with a serious impact on the environment and humans, as it causes harm by emitting

radioactive wastes and atomic accidents (Hassan, Baloch and Tarar, 2020).

As nuclear energy systems become more utilized in this time of crisis, structural

materials and nuclear fuels, radioactive materials, are much more needed in environments that

are more aggressive. With the expectancies of nuclear power plants reaching 80-100 years,

there is a requirement for improvement for thermal, chemical and radiation stability. Thus,

there is a need for systems to perform in higher thermal conditions than today’s reactor. With

the increasing demand for structural material and nuclear fuels, nuclear reactors are intended

to experience higher levels of radiation damage (Was, Petti, Ukai and Zinkie, 2019).

Such an example of radiation damage that happened in recent events was observed in

the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant in Japan. The 2011 nuclear power plant accident

caused the largest release of radionuclides into the terrestrial environment of the surrounding

area. It was the largest since the 1986 nuclear power plant accident in Chernobyl, Russia. The

3
end result of the events in Fukushima, Japan has resulted in contamination of forests,

agricultural lands, grasslands and urban areas (Onda et. al, 2020).

Aside from nuclear energy power plants, nations today build other energy sources

systems to counter the growing consensus of unprecedented carbon dioxide (CO2) emission in

the atmosphere, in particular fossil fuel consumption. It is recognized in today’s timeline that

there should be a mitigation strategy to consider the changes in the energy mix. Renewable

sources of energy provide the solutions to this problem, as previous research has found a

significant result to the mitigating effects of renewable energy of renewable energy

consumption on CO2 emissions (Zafar et.al, 2021).

With nearly ¾ of the world’s surface is bodies of water, the exploitation of ocean energy

becomes more viable for research on energy stability and environmental sustainability. In this

exploration of ocean energy, strategic adaptability is needed. Currently, wave power and tidal

currents are two of the researched types of ocean energy. The energy from these waves can be

generated naturally from marine energy sources, supplying the world with its energy demands.

Moreover, much research has been conducted to determine the amount of power generated and

impact of these technologies to the environment (Wilberforce, El Hassan, Durrant, Thompson,

Soudan, and Olabi, 2019).

Even though ocean wave energy is an efficient renewable source of energy as it utilizes

natural marine wave energy patterns, it still shares some large disadvantages. The influence of

electromagnetic effect, artificial reef effect and underwater noise of wave converters can

abruptly affect the marine environment of its surrounding area. The transient noise from the

converters would gradually affect some marine mammals and kinds of fishes (Zhang, Zhao,

Sun, and Li, 2021).

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 With ocean wave energy generators utilizing turbines for tidal and river energy

conversion, there is a potential that the machines could injure or kill animals with the rotating

blades. Moreover, the generators could possibly disturb or change the benthic and pelagic

habitats of animals, and could possibly change the oceanographic processes in the selected

areas (Copping et. al, 2020).

With the existing organic materials in the biosphere, Biomass has been referred to by

others as another option for solving the energy crisis being experienced today. Biofuels, the

materials that mainly functions as the source of energy for Biomass Power Plants, can be

sourced out from firewood, wood shavings, pellets, some fruit stones, and other organic

materials such as manure and spoiled fruits and vegetables. With the fact that there is an

increase production of these natural by-products means there is an efficient alternative for fossil

fuels as thermal energy of Biomass Power Plants become more available through time (Perea-

Moreno, M., Samerón-Manzano, and Perea-Moreno, A., 2019).

In the 2019 statistics, it is provided that Biomass Energy had the largest source of

renewable energy. Nearly half of the renewable energy available at the time was provided by

modern bioenergy power plants, this has accumulated about 12.4% of the total final energy

consumption (Raturi, 2019). Moreover, it is predicted in the future that Biomass will meet the

global energy demand. It is also acclaimed that in the period of the year 2018 until 2023,

bioenergy will be the fastest growing renewable source of energy (Wang, Bui, Zhang, and

Pham, 2020).

Even though Biomass energy can contribute to the need for energy and environmental

sustainability, there are studies emerging that the relationship of Biomass to carbon dioxide

(CO2) emission is too ambiguous. It is recommended and supported that Biomass Power Plants

share almost the same carbon dioxide (CO2) emission with fossil fuels. It is also highly

5
acclaimed that this type of energy source accelerates the rate of CO2- emission around the world

(Wang, 2019).

It is also found out in the nation-state of Uganda, that Biomass highly affects many

individuals by using biomass, primarily for cooking. More and more individuals are having

higher risks of developing reproductive difficulties as biomass is used naturally for energy and

other purposes. Mostly children and women are at the high risk population being affected by

these issues. Moreover, it is found out that the utilization of charcoal and firewood, one of the

primary sources of biofuel, causes deforestation in Uganda (Bamwesigye, Kupec, Chekuimo,

Pavlis, Asamoah, Darkwah, and Hlaváčková, 2020).

With the limits and depleting energy sources around the world, nations today are

focused and are adjusting to research on various energy sources, ranging from non-renewable

and renewable energy. Even though some are showing a widely promising solution to this

energy crisis that the world experiences, it also results in the degradation of the environment,

mostly affecting the habitats of animals.

With the information provided about various non-renewable and renewable energy

sources, the study aimed to assess the negative environmental effects of the various energy

sources power plants. This study further evaluates the effects and its counter-movements to

reduce the effects through results from other studies conducted in the recent years. Moreover,

the study discusses the proper waste disposal treatments for the negative agents of the power

plants.

6
Objectives

The objective of this paper is to study the impact of natural gas and fossil fuel and

ocean wave energy and biomass power plants on the environment. This paper specifically

aims to

1. Identify the various impacts of the studied energy sources on the Environment.

2. Identify appropriate design treatment schemes for waste disposal.

3. Identify solutions to reduce negative environmental impact of the studied energy sources

power plants.

Data Collected

Table 1. Data collected for fossil fuel power plants.

Impact on
the
environment Source/Cause Known Problems

Acid Rain Underground mining Acid Rain Drainage

Drainage decreases the quality of
receiving water by
lowering the pH and
increasing the dissolved
metal content of surface
and groundwater.

Global Burning of fossil fuel The burning of these fuels

Warming releases massive amounts
of airborne fine respirable
that form ground-level
ozone.

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 Soil pollution Combustion of fossil fuel/coal Polycyclic aromatic
hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a
pollutant of soil that results
in alteration in grain size,
porosity, and water-
holding capacity of soil
that is caused by the
combustion of fossil fuel.

Table 1 shows the distinguished negative impacts of fossil fuels on the environment

from different studies. It is observed that the common denominator that causes all of these

harmful events are mining techniques and combustion. Acid mine drainage is one of the main

problems during the operation of mining fossil fuels. It happens during the mining operation

of fossil fuel, whether it is underground or surface mining. This acid mine drainage contains

highly acidic water that lowers the pH of receiving water and increases its metal content. Fossil

Fuel also is responsible for the increasing temperature of the planet Earth. It is the primary

cause of climate change. The burning of fossil fuel produces massive amounts of airborne fine

respirable particles that form ground-level ozone. Moreover, fossil fuels also cause soil

pollution. Burning of coal produces naturally Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs).

However, a high value of these pollutes soil which results in alteration in grain size, porosity,

and water-holding capacity of the soil.

Table 2. Data collected for nuclear power plants

Impact on the
environment Source/Cause Known Problems

Degradation of Mining of Uranium Ore Spillage from Uranium ore

Natural mining causes radionuclide
Habitats concentration on stream
sediments

8
 Thermal Water as a coolant systems for High amount of water
Pollution Nuclear Reactors temperature leads to disturbance
of natural environmental
activities and settings

Toxic Gas Fuel Fabrication Process Toxicity from Hydrogen

Fluoride and Fluoride used in
the production of Uranium
Hexafluoride exits enrichment
plants as highly corrosive gas

Table 2 shows the negative impacts of Nuclear Energy Power Plants towards the

environment. Most of the negative environmental impacts secreted by Nuclear Power Plants

are found on the collection of radioactive fuel, and the process of energy harvest. According to

El-Hinnawi (2020), uranium can be mined and milled using the process of underground, on the

surface or solution mining. This process can result in the spillage of uranium ore which causes

radionuclide concentration on stream sediments found on water sources near uranium mining

and milling sites.

Another problem that comes from nuclear power plants is the thermal pollution caused

by using water as the main coolant for nuclear reactors (El-Hinnawi, 2020). The high amount

of temperature being secreted by water causes disturbance of natural environmental activities

and settings. This causes toxicity, elevated critical values for some aquatic animals, and thermal

contamination to the overall environment (Issakhov and Zhandaulet, 2019).

One of the most probable unknown environmental effects of nuclear power plants is

that it causes toxic gas, when toxic fumes exits unintentionally from nuclear power plants (El-

Hinnawi, 2020). The fuel fabrication process of Uranium Hexafluoride which uses Fluoride

and Hydrogen Fluoride, and exits enrichment plants as highly corrosive gas, causes plants’

9
psychological processes. Moreover, Hydrogen Fluoride becomes the most toxic phytotoxic to

plants when secreted (Choudhary, Rani, Devika, Patra, Singh, & Prasad, 2019). According to

Srivastava and Flora (2020), most fluoride found on water systems causes fluorosis that causes

skeletal problems to most humans.

Table 3. Data collected for ocean wave power plant

Impact on the
environment Source/Cause Known Problems
It causes changes in
sediment transport patterns
Loss of
WECs, marine current turbines, and and causes scour to the
connectivity
marine power transmission cables that are ocean floor which results
and habitat
fixed to ocean floor, and OWC in disrupted habitats and
integrity
loss of connectivity among
marine species
It causes modifications to
Change in the
mitigation paths, water
availability of
salinity, and temperature
nutrients and Submerged turbines and submerged WECs
of the ocean which results
ecological
in effects in nutrient
reactions
distribution
It causes modification to
Water column the wave of the ocean, as
modification well as changes in current
(physicochemi patterns locally at
OTEC plants and floating WECs
-cal properties neighboring sites, or
and coastline towards the coast which
dynamics) results to further change in
oceanographic processes
The mechanical operation
of the turbine and the
Increase in
aerodynamic forces of the
noise and Turbines and WECs
wind on the turbine blades
vibration
both contribute to the
noise

10
 The table above shows the negative impacts of ocean wave power plants to the

environment. Based on the data gathered from the study of Mendoza, et.al (2019), the impacts

of the mentioned power plant to the environment are: (1) Loss of connectivity in the marine

ecosystem which is caused by Wave Energy Converters (WECS), marine current turbines, and

marine power transmission cables. These devices are fixed to the ocean floor which causes

changes in sediment transport patterns that causes scour in the ocean floor which results in

disruption of habitats and loss of connectivity among species. Aside from these devices,

Oscillating Water Columns (OWC) also caused the same effect to marine species. (2) Change

in the availability of nutrients and ecological reactions. It is caused by submerged turbines and

submerged WECs which cause modification to mitigation paths, water salinity, and

temperature of the ocean which affects the nutrient distribution. (3) Water column

modification (physicochemical properties and coastline dynamics) is caused by Ocean Thermal

Energy Conversion (OTEC) plants and floating WECs. Utilizing these devices causes

modification to the wave of the ocean, as well as changes in the current patterns locally at

neighboring sites or towards the coast which results in further change in oceanographic process.

(4) Increases in noise and vibration are caused by turbines and WECs. It increases the

mentioned impacts through mechanical operation of the turbine and the aerodynamic forces of

the wind on the turbine blades which both contribute to the noise.

Table 4. Data collected for biomass power plants.

Impact on the
environment Source/ Cause Known Problems
Loss of soil Crop residue burning Burning crop residue leads to
nutrients and pollution as well as nutrient loss.
destruction of soil Diverse amounts of nutrients
organic carbon and were lost during the burning of
biota the biomass.

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 Deforestation Conversion of forest areas into Increase in fire activity and,
other land use consequently, biomass burning
emissions of trace gasses and
aerosols that impact climate, air
quality and human health.

Air pollution Anthropogenic emissions from the
incomplete combustion of fossil
fuels, road dust, and industrial
activities
These emissions contribute to the
increase of atmospheric gasses
such as volatile and semi-volatile
organic compounds (VOCs),
CO, NOx, CH2O, CH4, and SO2.

Table 4 shows the negative environmental impacts of the biomass plant. Based on the

data gathered, the negative environmental impacts of biomass power plants are (1) Loss of soil

nutrients and destruction of soil organic carbon and biota which is caused by crop residue

burning (Dinesh et al, 2022). Biomass production can also lead to soil erosion, particularly if

it involves intensive tillage practices. This can result in the loss of valuable topsoil, reduce soil

fertility, and increase sedimentation in rivers and streams. (2) Deforestation caused by the

conversion of forest areas into other land use leads to increased fire activity and biomass

burning emissions of trace gasses and aerosols that impact climate, air quality, and human

health (de Olivera et al., 2020)(Brando et al., 2020). (3) Air pollution which is caused by

anthropogenic emissions from the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels, road dust, and

industrial activities. This can result in the release of pollutants such as particulate matter,

nitrogen oxides, and volatile organic compounds, which can have negative impacts on human

health and the environment (Khodmanee & Amnuaylojaroen, 2021).

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 Table 5. Possible solution of reducing fossil fuel power plant environmental impact
Impact on the Details on how this possible solutions should be
environment Possible Solution/s implemented

Acid Rain · The utilization of · Makes use of waterproof materials, such as clays
Drainage covering materials (e.g., bentonite) or plastics, to cover the
exposed areas/tailings and prevent their
oxidation.

· This approach involves the addition of alkaline

materials to tailings, voids, and other
· Stabilization using geological settings that are conducive to the
Alkaline materials formation of AMD. These materials hinder the
production of acidic and metalliferous
drainage.

Global Shifts to other · The rapid phaseout of fossil-fuel-related

Warming alternative clean types emissions and the switch from fossil to
of energy. renewable, clean energy sources has the
potential to prevent morbidity and mortality
from aerosol pollution.

Soil pollution · Solvent · Used to separate compounds based on their

extraction/soil solubility. This technique can be used for
washing PAH removal from contaminated soils.

· Thermal treatment · Thermal treatment for soil remediation uses heat

to destroy contaminants by changing them
into gas.

Table 5 shows the possible solutions to the identified problems presented in Table 1.

Acid rain drainage is the first identified problem. It is the result of mining that causes various

problems for the surrounding area. In order to combat its disastrous impact on the environment,

many solutions were identified including the utilization of covering materials, stabilization

using alkaline materials, passivation or microencapsulation, bactericides application, water

ingression control, and backfilling of voids and open stenches. The presented solutions are not

entirely applicable and ideal for all acid rain drainage conditions. The second problem is the

alarming climate change. Fossil fuel is the main contributor to carbon dioxide emissions in the

atmosphere. In order to uplift the condition of our world, it was suggested to shift to another

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alternative clean and safe type of energy such as sunlight, wind, and water. Soil pollution is the

last environmental problem identified caused by fossil fuels. There are also various solutions

to prevent this situation. The presented solutions are solvent extraction or soil washing, thermal

treatment, electrokinetic treatment, and chemical oxidation.

Table 6. Possible solution of reducing nuclear energy power plant environmental impact
Details on how this design
Impact on the treatment should be
environment Possible Solution/s implemented

Degradation of Transforming radionuclides into Remediation technologies may

Natural Habitats harmless and stable form be applied to radionuclide-
contaminated groundwater

Thermal Pollution Reduction of usage of water as Usage of Pressurized Water

coolant for Nuclear Power Plant Control Systems on Reactors
reactors

Toxic Gas Substantiating of obtaining Treatment in the flame of a

hydrogen fluoride from uranium hydrogen-containing fuel and
hexafluoride oxygen-containing oxidant

Table 6 shows the possible solutions to the negative environmental impacts of Nuclear

Power Plants. Radionuclides found on stream sediments can be transformed into its harmless

and stable form using various remediation technology. Remediation technology that may be

used differ on its use and are categorized based on physical, chemical, and biological

technology. Each category has its own disadvantages and advantages. However, the most

straightforward of wastewater treatment is the ‘pump-and-treat’ system. This system works by

pumping the infected groundwater and treating it in a separate facility and is re-injected again

as a surface water or as groundwater (Dinis and Fiúza, 2021).

14
 In solving the thermal pollution secreted by water coolants from nuclear power plants,

it is suggested to use pressurized water control systems on reactors. Through the system

capability of pressurizers, the mass coolant can be balanced, reducing the amount of thermal

pollution that can be discharged from nuclear power plants. Through this system, the water

level that can be used for cooling reactors can be reduced and controlled by the pressurizers

(Mostafavi and Ansarifar, 2021).

According to Pashkevich et.al (2021), on their thermodynamic analysis methods for

substantiating hydrogen fluoride from uranium hexafluoride. Treatment in the flame of a

hydrogen-containing fuel and oxygen-containing oxidant could reduce or deplete the Hydrogen

Fluoride and Fluoride from Uranium Hexafluoride. From their research analysis, the indicated

temperature can only be reached in the case of interaction of uranium hexafluoride with

oxygen-containing oxidant and hydrogen-containing fuel.

Table 7. Possible solution of reducing ocean wave energy power plant environmental impact
Impact on the Details on how this design
environment Possible Solution/s treatment should be implemented

Loss of Application of WECs a power Deployment of WECs as power

Connectivity and sensors sensors would result in reducing
Habitat Integrity flora and fauna damage but also
impact the growth of flora and
fauna on the surrounding
environment.

Deployment of spar buoys to the

ocean since it is consists of a
Change in the cylindrical floating structure that
availability of is anchored to the seabed. These
nutrients and Using of spar buoy in harvesting
devices are designed to harness
ecological reactions energy
the energy of ocean waves, and
they do not require any moving

15
 parts or underwater turbines,
which can cause disturbances in
the water column.

The P-WEC device generates

electricity efficiently in response
Water column to the motion of ocean waves, and
modification its use would minimize the
(physicochemical Piezoelectric Wave Energy
modification of physicochemical
properties and Converter (P-WEC)
properties and coastline dynamics.
coastline dynamics) Deploying P-WECs in areas with
significant wave activity and
connecting them to an electrical
grid would enable the harnessing
of ocean energy without
significant environmental impact.

The Triboelectric Nanogenerator

(TENG) can then be deployed in
Increase in noise Triboelectric Nanogenerator the ocean, where it can harvest
and vibration (TENG) energy from the mechanical
motion of the waves without
causing an increase in noise and
vibration. This technology has the
potential to significantly reduce
the environmental impact of ocean
energy and provide a sustainable
source of electricity.

The table 7 shows the possible solutions to the negative environmental impacts of

Ocean Wave Power Plants. Based on the table above, the possible solution in terms of Loss of

Connectivity and Habitat Integrity is Application of WECs as power sensors. Deployment of

WECs as power sensors would result in reducing flora and fauna damage but also impact the

growth of flora and fauna on the surrounding environment.(Clemente, D., Rosa-Santos, P., &

Taveira-Pinto, F. ,2021).

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 In solving the problem of change in the availability of nutrients and ecological

reactions, the possible solution is using spar buoy in harvesting energy. Spar buoys are a type

of ocean energy device that consists of a cylindrical floating structure that is anchored to the

seabed. These devices are designed to harness the energy of ocean waves, and they do not

require any moving parts or underwater turbines, which can cause disturbances in the water

column. (Tunde Aderinto and Hua Li, 2019)

The problem in water column modification (physicochemical properties and coastline

dynamics), the possible solution is using Piezoelectric Wave Energy Converter (P-WEC). The

P-WEC device generates electricity efficiently in response to the motion of ocean waves, and

its use would minimize the modification of physicochemical properties and coastline dynamics.

Deploying P-WECs in areas with significant wave activity and connecting them to an electrical

grid would enable the harnessing of ocean energy without significant environmental

impact.(Vipin V., Kshma Trivedi, Santanu Koley, 2022)

And the possible solution to the environmental impact of the Ocean Wave Power Plant,

the increase in noise and vibration, is using Triboelectric Nanogenerator (TENG). The

Triboelectric Nanogenerator (TENG) can then be deployed in the ocean, where it can harvest

energy from the mechanical motion of the waves without causing an increase in noise and

vibration. This technology has the potential to significantly reduce the environmental impact

of ocean energy and provide a sustainable source of electricity. (Kequan Xia, Jiangming Fu,

Zhiwei Xu, 2020).

17
 Table 8. Possible solution of reducing biomass power plant environmental impact

Details on how this possible

Impact on the solutions should be
environment Possible Solution/solutions implemented
Loss of soil Enhance soil biology Soil microbes directly regulate
nutrients and the biogeochemical cycling of
destruction of soil carbon, nutrients, and trace
organic carbon and elements by catalyzing redox
biota reactions.

Deforestation Adoption of sustainable Deforestation mitigation

agroforestry, sustainable logging, strategies need to be
agro-pastoral production system, implemented effectively, which
etc. calls for acknowledging the
duties of the national, state, and
local governments as well as the
proactive activities of civil
society and private society.

Air pollution Cutting down emissions Improving legislations,

increasing tree canopies,
providing alternatives for
stubble burning, and promoting
low-sulfur fuel.

Table 8 shows the possible solutions to the negative environmental impacts of biomass

power plants. Based on the table above, the possible solution in terms of loss of soil nutrients

and destruction of soil organic carbon and biota is the enhancement of soil biology. Soil

microbes directly regulate the biogeochemical cycling of carbon, nutrients, and trace elements

by catalyzing redox reactions (Gedamu, 2020). In terms of deforestation, the adoption of

sustainable agroforestry, sustainable logging, and agro-pastoral production system are the

possible solutions (Lehman et al., 2019). Deforestation mitigation strategies need to be

implemented effectively, which calls for acknowledging the duties of the national, state, and

local governments as well as the proactive activities of civil society and private society (Kumari

et al., 2019). In terms of air pollution, the possible solution is cutting down emissions.

Improving legislation, increasing tree canopies, providing alternatives for stubble burning, and

promoting low-sulfur fuel (Anwar et al., 2021).

18
 According to Lombardi et al (2021), sourcing biomass from sustainable sources, such

as waste and residue streams, can reduce the negative impacts of land use change and

overexploitation of natural resources. The authors also highlight the importance of using

efficient and clean conversion technologies to reduce air and water pollution and suggest that

utilizing biomass for combined heat and power or biorefineries can increase the efficiency and

value of biomass use.

Data Analysis

Acid mine drainage is the product of fossil fuel where it originates from both active and

abandoned coal and gold mines. It is described as a natural process produced when mining

activities expose sulfur-bearing minerals (mostly iron sulfides) to atmospheric oxygen,

moisture, and acidophilic iron-oxidizing bacteria, resulting in sulfuric acid, dissolved iron, and

precipitation of ferric hydroxide (Latan, 2021). It also consists of hazardous and toxic

chemicals species including arsenic (As), chromium (Cr), iron (Fe), aluminum (Al), copper

(Cu), zinc (Zn), lead (Pb), molybdenum (Mo), and nickel (N) (Masindi and Tekere, 2020).

AMD substance greatly affects the receiving environment, mainly by altering the ambient pH

and the dissolved concentrations of different chemical species (Masindi et al., 2019). This can

have serious consequences for aquatic life, as many species are sensitive to changes in pH.

Low pH levels can also increase the solubility of heavy metals and other toxins in the water,

making them more available for uptake by aquatic organisms.

Fossil fuels are also a significant contributor to climate change because when they are

burned, they produce enormous volumes of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gasses.

Worldwide, fossil-fuel-related emissions account for approximately 65% of excess mortality

and 70% of anthropogenic aerosol-induced climatic cooling (Ramanathan, 2019). These

19
emissions trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere, causing global warming and other climatic

changes.

Another study, published in the journal Environmental Research Letters in 2019, found

that the production and use of coal, oil, and gas accounted for 76% of global GHG emissions

between 1988 and 2015. The study also showed that emissions from the burning of fossil fuels

have been increasing rapidly in recent decades, contributing to the ongoing rise in global

temperatures and other climate impacts.

Soil pollution also has a disastrous impact on fossil fuels and the environment. Soil is

an important environmental matrix that directly or indirectly supports the life of all species. It

has long been overlooked as a sink for all contaminants, significantly impacting soil quality.

Pollutant disposal has changed the characteristics of soils and introduced toxicity. The

presence of heavy metals, insecticides, and other chemicals including polychlorinated

biphenyls and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) have been affecting and harming all

kinds of life. PAHs are common soil contaminants that cause alteration in grain size, porosity,

and water-holding capacity of soil and affect the diversity/population of microbes adversely

(Sakshi, 2019).

This finding is also supported by another study by Abraham and Acree which

investigated the levels of PAHs in soil and sediment samples collected from an area in Poland

that was heavily polluted by industrial emissions from coal and oil combustion. The study used

gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to analyze the samples and found that the

concentration of PAHs was significantly higher in the polluted area compared to a reference

site. The study concluded that the emissions from fossil fuel combustion were a major source

of PAHs in the soil and sediment, leading to soil pollution. The study highlights the need for

20
effective pollution prevention and management strategies to reduce the release of PAHs and

other pollutants from fossil fuels into the environment.

With the overwhelming carbon emissions of fossil fuel power plants, the Paris

Agreement was enacted with the aims of limiting carbon emission around the world as well as

controlling climate change in the 21st century. With the effects of this agreement, nations

around the globe decided to come together to solve the problems of carbon emission and

climate change.

Many nations today utilize Nuclear Power Plants as their alternative or main source of

power. With the efficiency of Nuclear Power Plants, it is proven that it can reduce the carbon

emission around the world. However, even though Nuclear Power Plants are proven to be

environmentally efficient, there are still signs of this power source showing significant negative

environmental effects (Karahan et.al., 2020).

Today, the most dominant reactor-type that is used around the world is the uranium-

oxide fuel. A process called nuclear fuel cycle is used as a programme to mine and mill

uranium. The process works through manufacture of fuel elements for the reactor, transport

and reprocess of irradiated fuel, and to the management of waste products. The processes of

milling and mining of uranium ore can be done underground, on the surface or on the process

of solution mining, depending on the geological setting of the ores (El-Hinnawi, 2020).

A study conducted on a uranium mine near Sinai, Egypt has proved that uranium mining

affect the natural habitat of animals and in overall the natural environment. Stream sediments

and groundwater samples were collected from El Allouga, Sinai to analyze their radionuclides

to explore the geochemical dispersion and environmental impacts of the mining process. Most

of the sediments tested has shown concentration more than the background level. The

significant relations between the organic materials reflected the possibility of uranium
21
absorption to its surfaces. The high radionuclide concentration in the stream sediments are

mainly due to the contamination of mining process. Moreover, the available water resources

found on the vicinity of El Allouga, Sinau uranium mining zone is deemed unsafe for human

consumption as well as for other species. In addition, the calculated external hazard values

from uranium exposure worldwide in average reaches 30% of studied stream sediments, this

indicates that people who are highly exposed to this level of radiation for a lifetime could have

a higher chance of having cancer (Ramadan et. al, 2022).

In another study conducted in Southern China, contents of radionuclide uranium in the

water, soil, and rice around decommissioned mines were analyzed. It was found out that

radioactive contamination has potentially harmful biological effects on the ecosystem and food

chain. From the study, it was found that the contamination around the uranium field were

mainly caused by mining, quarry discharges, and ecological cycle in the early stage of the

nuclear fuel cycle, all of the water, soil, and rice were contaminated in different degrees of

radioactivity (Shi et. al, 2021).

With the excessive heat being expelled by nuclear reactors, coolants are highly needed

for the reactors not to overheat. This process is called thermal cooling, and the steam residues

expelled by the reactors from the high amount of water used is called thermal pollution (El-

Hinnawi, 2020). Thermal pollution results in the reduction of water quality due to the changes

in ambient temperature. Most reasons on how these types of pollution occur is because of using

water as a coolant agent for nuclear power plants and industries. In a study conducted near a

nuclear power plant in Iraq, it is found out that the increase of temperature of water leads to

changes in the living ecosystem of fishes, leading to the declining number of fishes around the

area (Ali et. al, 2020).

22
 In a research paper presented by Issakhov and Zhandaulet (2019), it is further discussed

that heated water prevents natural activity in aquatic settings, preventing normal conditions in

sea, lakes or rivers affecting the flora and fauna of the ecosystem. It is also enumerated that the

increasing water temperature often increases the susceptibility of organisms to toxic

substances, another problem that thermal pollution results in is it exceeds the critical values for

stenothermic aquatic organisms, for which even a small thermal contamination of the

environment is dangerous to these types of organisms. Some problems that thermal pollution

may lead to is high temperature favors blue green algae than the usual algae floral, which

promotes water flowering in the area. As water temperature rises, animals would need more

oxygen, the result of high water temperature leads to lower solubility. Moreover, higher

temperature leads to changes in gas and chemical composition in the water, leading to the

growth of anaerobic bacteria and release of poisonous gasses, hydrogen sulfide and methane.

The highest potential hazard that can be taken out from the fuel fabrication process

arises from the toxic gases released by hydrogen fluoride (HF) and fluoride used for the

production of uranium hexafluoride (El-Hinnawi, 2020). In a research conducted by

Choudhary, et. al (2019), HF can be accumulated in the leaves of some sensitive plants,

affecting the plant at extremely low concentration, making HF as a most toxic phytotoxic air

pollutant. HF mainly affects the plant by entering its system in its gaseous form, while affecting

the plant’s psychological processes. As HF highly affects plants, humans and animals may also

be considered as endangered in the food chain as leaves of plants have become contaminated

with concentration of gaseous HF.

From the report presented by Srivastava and Flora (2020), the abundant amount of

fluorine found in the environment as well as those found on drinking water sources are major

contributors to fluorosis. The effects of fluorosis has been a public concern to 24 nations,

23
mostly found in medical cases. Even though fluorosis is a reversible act, it still takes a lot of

time and resources to treat. Moreover, there is no specific treatment effectively, making

prevention of water fluoride contamination the safest approach.

From the research reviewed, it is found out that the pollution and negative

environmental effects of Nuclear Power Plants are mostly found on the collection of fuel

sources, fuel fabrication and powering of nuclear reactors. Most of the environmental effects

are usually caused by radiation, thermal pollution and toxic gas. Natural habitats, animals,

plants, and humans, in general, are the most affected population by these adverse secretion of

wastes from Nuclear Power Plants.

Ocean energy has different environmental effects. It includes direct and indirect effects

on biological systems and their interactions. Some of the main impacts identified were the

physical damage caused to marine and coastal habitats and the possible effects of noise on

marine species. Among the 355 articles written that show a literature review of environmental

impacts identified worldwide, there are 22 possible impacts found. However, there are no found

indicators for evaluating these impacts. Despite the lack of indicators, common environmental

impacts were still addressed which includes: (1) loss of connectivity and habitat integrity, (2)

change in the availability of nutrients and ecological interactions, (3) modification in terms of

water column physicochemical properties and coastline dynamics, and (4) increase in noise

and vibration. These data can be classified as a.) Hydrodynamic modification, b.) The physical

or geomorphological alteration, c.) chemical effects, d.) Biotic interference, and e.) Potential

socio-economic losses (Mendoza, et.al., 2019).

Further findings from the study of Mendoza, et.al (2019) show that ocean energy devices

that are used in harvesting energy cause further environmental and social impacts depending

on their operational mode and location. Their study shows that according to a comprehensive

24
approach and environmental impact procedure that they’ve done, the type of water devices and

their position on the water column also produce a variety of effects.

A floating device is a device that is anchored to the bottom or semi-submerged. It creates

potential modifications to the waves and current patterns not just locally but also on its

neighboring sites and towards the coast. Examples of this device are Ocean Conversion

(OTEC) plants and floating Wave Energy Converters (WECs) which can cause free water

surface impacts. Submerged on the other hand are devices that do not touch the sea bed. It can

potentially modify nutrient distribution, migration path, water salinity, and temperature.

Examples of this type of device are turbines and submerged WECs which cause water column

impacts. Moreover, fixed-to-ocean floor devices are anchored to the bottom or arranged on the

seabed. It can cause modifications in sediment transport patterns, scour, and limit or eliminate

habitats. An example of these devices is WECs, marine current turbines, and marine power

transmission cables. In addition, onshore devices can cause modifications in coastal ecosystems

as well as human activities. It can be found in Oscillating Water Columns (OWC) and OTEC

power plants.

The production of biomass is divided into five categories: (i) wooded or compact

biomass (composed of suburban plants, forest trees, agricultural forests, and agro-

manufacturing crops); (ii) non-wooded biomass (produced from grass, leaves, and crops and

digested in anaerobic digesters); (iii) manufactured remainders (consisting of sawdust, bagasse,

nuts, and shells); (iv) agricultural waste (composed of feed and wastewater); (v) livestock

manure (waste from livestock). Various kinds of biomass can be utilized as additives, for

energy distribution, and for cooling (Gyamfi et al., 2021).

Biomass and organic solid waste are seen as very promising alternative energy sources,

which leads to clean and CO2-free energy systems. However, due to the rising environmental

25
problems, many studies on potential sources of renewable energy in general and biomass

energy, in particular, were carried out. Globally, burning biomass has a negative influence on

health, air quality, and climate.

By destroying soil organic carbon and biota and removing soil nutrients, biomass

burning has an indirect impact on food production. Burning biomass has a harmful effect on

the production of food, fiber, fuel, and fodder (Kumar et al., 2019).

Findings from the study of Khodmanee and Amnuaylorajoen shows that burning

biomass changes the atmosphere's composition, which may have an impact on the radiation

budget and accelerate climate change. Burning agricultural crop residue also leads to the

release of hazardous greenhouse gasses (CO2, N2O, CH4), particulate matter, smoke, air

pollutants (CO, NH3, NOx, SO2, NMHC), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and

greenhouse gasses (CO2, N2O, CH4) (Dinesh et al, 2022).

Many factors make biomass a desirable feedstock. The first benefit is that it lowers

greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and is a new source that will be developed in the future. Also,

it serves society by bringing about economic growth. However, according to Monien, et al.

(2019), when used in ordinary stoves, biomass has a negative impact. The source releases

polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Furthermore, biomass burning emissions have a

minor impact on the increase in O3, but a considerable impact on the growth in CO and NO2

concentrations. These findings are consistent with the previous study, which contributed more

than 50% of the CO and NOx in the atmosphere (Khodmanee & Amnuaylojaroen, 2021).

Amazonia forests provide ecosystem services that go beyond biodiversity; nevertheless,

Amazonia's ability to provide these ecosystem services is diminishing due to climate change,

deforestation, and forest degradation (Gatti et al., 2021). Air pollution from gaseous and

particle emissions connected with biomass burning, which are linked to deforestation (the

change of forest areas to another land use caused by anthropogenic activity), also endangers

26
Amazonia. These emissions have an effect on the atmosphere by raising air temperatures,

reducing rainfall, and affecting air quality. They also damage human health by worsening or

creating a variety of respiratory issues (Alves et al., 2018). Because of the often-overlooked

health impact of biomass burning emissions, it is critical to acquire a thorough understanding

of the linkages between deforestation and biomass burning emissions.

With increased deforestation in Amazonia, fire activity is predicted to increase, and so

are biomass burning emissions of trace gasses and aerosols that impact climate, air quality, and

human health. This is because deforestation and fires are frequently positively connected in

Amazonia and are mechanically linked, particularly through the practice of slash-and-burn

agriculture (de Olivera et al., 2020)(Brando et al., 2020).

Based on the studies reviewed, it concludes that soil degradation and loss of nutrients,

deforestation, and air pollution are the main factors contributing to the negative impacts of

biomass. Burning crop residue leads to soil nutrient loss and air pollution. Air pollution

contributes to the increase of atmospheric gasses. Likewise, deforestation increases fire

activities that eventually affect the climate.

Justification/Predicted Outcome

Various techniques and procedures were invented, introduced, and implemented to

combat the negative impact of fossil fuels on our environment. The effect of acid main drainage

has given numerous techniques and solutions to impede and control its consequences on our

environment. Utilization of covering materials is the first option to combat this problem. This

technique made use of waterproof materials where the waterproofing can be improved by

layering different materials. However, this technique is prone to failure, they can react with the

encapsulated materials, or their leachates, and are also exposed to the environment, which leads

to their degradation and reduces their waterproofing effectiveness.

27
 Alkaline materials stabilization was the second approach. This method includes adding

alkaline materials to AMD in order to elevate the pH and precipitate heavy metals, such as lime

or cement. While it can be costly and the durability of the treated material may be impacted by

weathering and leaching, this technology may be useful in lowering the solubility and mobility

of pollutants.

On the other hand, switching to other clean, alternative forms of energy is the best way

to mitigate the growing effects of climate change (Ramanathan, et al 2019). Climate change

may be slowed by switching to renewable energy sources like hydroelectric, solar, and wind.

Together with this shift, there should be steps to lower energy usage through building retrofits

and lifestyle changes, as well as laws and incentives to encourage the use of electric cars and

energy-efficient devices.

Many alternatives exist as well for dealing with soil contamination brought on by the

manufacture of fossil fuels. Several remediation methods are presented in the paper by Sakshi,

Singh, and Haristash in order to aid with soil contamination brought on by fossil fuels. Soil

washing and solvent extraction are the first options. Organic solvents or surfactants are used t

o extract and remove PAHs from the soil, organic solvents or surfactants are used. The removal

of PAHs from sandy or loamy soils with this technique may be successful, although it might

be expensive and result in polluted wastewater.

The second option, known as thermal treatment, is heating contaminated soil to high

temperatures in order to remove or volatilize PAHs. Although this technique may be efficient

in removing PAHs from the soil, it also has the potential to release additional airborne

pollutants like greenhouse gasses.

The study concludes that each technique has benefits and drawbacks and before

selecting the most effective approach, site-specific factors including soil type, contaminant
28
concentration, and the presence of additional contaminants should be taken into account. In

order to stop additional environmental harm, the research also emphasizes the significance of

monitoring and assessing the efficiency and safety of the repair approaches.

In the research review study presented by Dinis and Fiúza (2021), it is provided that

groundwater contamination is one of the most concerning issues coming from uranium mining

activities. It is found out from their study that radionuclides cannot be destroyed or degraded

easily, unlike most organic materials (similar to materials such as metals) found on any

environment. It is also found out that the sites, where radionuclides are detected, are highly

radioactive and mixed with waste disposals, and concluded that there may be many

contaminants in the groundwater tested. The most effective way of controlling these

contaminants is by the use of remediation technology that are differentiated with physical,

chemical and biological (plant and microorganism methods) technology. Each of the methods

used has separate limitations and strengths.

The most straightforward approach used method of wastewater treatment is the ‘pump-

and-treat’ systems, the contaminated groundwater is pumped and treated in a separate facility

and then re-injected into the subsurface or surface of the water source. The disadvantage of

this method is that it disturbs the natural flow of groundwater and it requires steady energy and

other inputs to operate. The first type of remediation technology used in controlling

radionuclides from contaminated water is the chemical precipitation, these methods are widely

used for uranium mine and mill water effluents. These methods use small amounts of chemicals

and are cost-efficient. The disadvantage of these methods is that it produces large amounts of

residues. Chemical separation technology works by separating and concentrating the

contaminants from the groundwater. The process then creates residuals such as filters, filter

cakes, carbon units, and ion-exchange resins that require lengthier treatment, storage, or

29
disposal. Thee dependency of the chemical separation to be used in the process is still

dependent on the location of the mining and milling site. Issues included in this process is the

offsite solution groundwater extraction and delivery system required. The technologies for

chemical remediation generate treated effluent and contaminated residues that would require

separate and further treatments or disposal (Dinis and Fiúza, 2021).

The second type of remediation technology in controlling radionuclide-contaminated

groundwater is through the process of physical separation. This process flows through an

offsite procedure that requires construction and operation of groundwater extraction and

injection systems. The methods are mostly based on the contaminants’ physical properties to

separate the contaminated water between clean and contaminated fractions. The physical

separation of the infested water will result in liquid fractions and contaminated solid residues

(such as sludge, filter cake, or carbon absorption units), which requires a separate-type of

treatment or disposal. The process cannot only be used for groundwater but also for surface

water, wastewater, and slurred sludge or sediments. The applicable process from these

methods, results of uranium mining, are membrane filtration or reverse osmosis and

microfiltration system and carbon absorption (Dinis and Fiúza, 2021).

The third and final treatment for contaminated groundwater is the biological treatment.

The process is done through the plant root system, for some radionuclides, with transpiration

to the air, through the uptake of groundwater by plants. This process is also called the

phytoremediation and is implemented at lower cost compared to other conventional treatments;

however, this process of remediation requires extended periods to fully treat the contamination.

The process uses hyper-accumulator plants and their rhizosphere microorganisms to remove,

stabilize, transfer, or destroy contaminants found in groundwater, surface water, and

wastewater (Dinis and Fiúza, 2021).

30
 Most types of coolants used in Nuclear Reactors today are water, helium, and carbon

dioxide. Based on the study conducted by Garrett and Watson (2019), water performed the

highest as a coolant system for nuclear fission reactors. In comparison, water was able to keep

the temperature below the maximum much easier than the helium and carbon dioxide cooled

systems.

With the dominant reactor types used today is uranium-oxide fuel, common moderators

used as coolant is water. This material causes thermal pollution in the surrounding area (El-

Hinnawi, 2020), as a control system pressurized water level control systems are utilized.

Pressurizers are the most important components for pressurized water nuclear reactors, since it

is responsible for coolant mass balance. The pressurizers are key elements to non-boiling heat

transfer in the primary circuit of nuclear power plants. The main control goal of the system is

to stabilize the water level at different reference values for every reactor to suppress the effect

of time-varying disturbances such as coolant leakage in the primary circuit of the nuclear power

plant and extreme thermal pollution in the surrounding environment. Incorrect pressurized

water level systems for these reactors may cause disturbance in pressure control or may cause

damage to electric heaters on the systems of the power plants which could result in the security

and stability of the power plant. For modern reactors, standard Proportional-Integral-Derivative

(PID) controllers are usually used to improve the control of water level in a pressurizer

(Mostafavi and Ansarifar, 2021).

In the thermodynamic analysis conducted by Pashkevich, Zimin, Kapustin, and Petrov

(2021), methods for substantiating hydrogen fluoride from uranium hexafluoride were

analyzed. In order to obtain the needed substance, treatment in the flame of a hydrogen-

containing fuel and oxygen-containing oxidant were performed. Expedient carry of hydrolysis

of uranium hexafluoride were performed with the aims of obtaining uranium oxides and

31
hexafluoride in the absence of excess water from a temperature above 1150 K and rapidly

cooling the reaction products to reduce the extents of the reaction of fluorination of uranium

oxides by hydrogen fluoride at a temperature indicated below the indicated. It was found out

from the experimentation analysis that system of elements of Uranium-Fluoride-Hydrogen-

Oxygen calculations, the higher the atoms of hydrogen or when equal to fluorine atoms and the

number of oxygen atoms is twice as large as the number of uranium atoms. The major uranium-

bearing compounds in thermodynamic equilibrium used a mixture of substances reaching

above 1100 K such as uranium oxides, and only, in practice of fluorine-containing compound

is hydrogen fluoride. The indicated temperature can only be reached in the case of interaction

of uranium hexafluoride with hydrogen-containing and oxygen-containing substances in a

combustion regime with hydrogen and oxygen.

The deployment of ocean wave energy current farms have important influence towards

local wave conditions and coastline profile, with consequent morphological changes. The

changes can affect habitats and benthos, disturbing the natural marine ecosystem. Adding to

risk of collision with marine mammals, diving birds, and other fauna near the wave energy

current (WEC) farm, as well as noise impact during stages of WEC's life cycle, introducing

potential disruptive electromagnetic fields, and alteration of flow and current patterns and

chemical pollution caused by WEC's. To compensate for the effects of these systems, aside

from further research and analysis of mitigation measures on solving these problems, WEC's

can be deployed for other purposes. WEC's can be deployed as power up sensors that would

monitor flora and fauna of near natural habitats, WEC's may also serve as habitat for specific

marine species. Moreover, through infrastructure sharing, critical component protection,

introduction of beneficial shielding effects, and coastal erosion mitigation systems may help in

solving the effects of degradation of habitat integrity, and loss of connectivity among others.

Through the process of WEC adaptations, the marine population is able to thrive without

32
jeopardizing the integrity and functionality of the wave converter (Clemente, Rosa-Santos,

Taveira-Pinto, 2021).

One of the key environmental impacts of ocean energy is the change in the availability

of nutrients in the water column. Ocean energy devices, such as wave energy converters, can

alter the flow of water, which can affect the distribution of nutrients in the water column. This,

in turn, can affect the growth and distribution of phytoplankton and other marine organisms,

which can have cascading effects throughout the food chain. To address this issue a possible

solution is the use of spar buoys. Spar buoys are a type of ocean energy device that consists of

a cylindrical floating structure that is anchored to the seabed. These devices are designed to

harness the energy of ocean waves, and they do not require any moving parts or underwater

turbines, which can cause disturbances in the water column. The spar buoys can be designed

in a way that minimizes their impact on the surrounding ecosystem. For example, they can be

designed to have a small footprint on the seabed, which can reduce the disturbance of benthic

habitats. Additionally, the placement of spar buoys can be carefully considered to minimize

their impact on the movement of marine organisms, such as whales and dolphins. In terms of

implementation, further research and development are needed to improve the design and

performance of spar buoys. This can involve testing different materials and shapes to optimize

the buoy's energy conversion efficiency and reduce its impact on the environment.

Additionally, the comprehensive environmental impact assessments should be conducted prior

to the deployment of spar buoys to ensure that they are sited in locations that minimize their

impact on the surrounding ecosystem. The use of spar buoys presents a promising solution to

mitigate the environmental impact of ocean energy. However, further research and

development are needed to ensure that these devices are designed and deployed in a way that

minimizes their impact on the surrounding ecosystem.(Tunde Aderinto and Hua Li, 2019).

33
 In the research review study presented by Vipin V., Kshma Trivedi, Santanu Koley

(2022), discusses the use of a submerged piezoelectric wave energy converter (P-WEC) as a

possible solution to the environmental impact of ocean energy. The P-WEC is designed to

convert the kinetic energy of ocean waves into electrical energy through the use of piezoelectric

materials. Piezoelectric materials generate an electrical charge when subjected to mechanical

stress, such as the deformation caused by ocean waves. The P-WEC device is placed

underwater and floats over an undulated seabed, where it is subjected to the motion of ocean

waves. The article describes a study in which the performance of the P-WEC device was

evaluated in a laboratory setting. The device was found to generate electricity efficiently in

response to the motion of ocean waves. The authors suggest that the P-WEC could be used to

harness ocean energy in a way that minimizes the environmental impact of traditional ocean

energy methods. To implement this solution, the P-WEC device would need to be deployed in

areas with significant wave activity. The device would be anchored in place and connected to

an electrical grid to transmit the generated energy. The use of piezoelectric materials in the P-

WEC would allow for the conversion of wave energy into electricity without significantly

modifying the physical and chemical properties of the water column, as would be the case with

other ocean energy technologies such as tidal turbines. The use of a submerged piezoelectric

wave energy converter device offers a possible solution to the environmental impact of ocean

energy. The P-WEC device generates electricity efficiently in response to the motion of ocean

waves, and its use would minimize the modification of physicochemical properties and

coastline dynamics. Deploying P-WECs in areas with significant wave activity and connecting

them to an electrical grid would enable the harnessing of ocean energy without significant

environmental impact.

In the research review study presented by Kequan Xia, Jiangming Fu, and Zhiwei Xu

(2020), proposes a solution for harvesting ocean energy without causing an increase in noise

34
and vibration. The proposed solution is a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) that is based on

a water balloon. The TENG is a device that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy

using the triboelectric effect and electrostatic induction. In this specific design, the TENG is

based on a water balloon, which is connected to a copper electrode and a fluorinated ethylene

propylene (FEP) film electrode. The FEP film is coated with polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) to

enhance the triboelectric effect. When the water balloon is deformed due to the mechanical

energy of the ocean waves, the FEP film and the copper electrode rub against each other,

generating electrical energy. The TENG has multiple frequencies and can produce high-output

electrical energy. This means that it can harvest energy from different types of ocean waves

and generate a significant amount of electrical power. Additionally, the TENG is an all-weather

device, meaning that it can operate in different weather conditions. Implementing this solution

involves designing and building the TENG device, which can be done using the materials and

techniques described in the article. The TENG can then be deployed in the ocean, where it can

harvest energy from the mechanical motion of the waves without causing an increase in noise

and vibration. This technology has the potential to significantly reduce the environmental

impact of ocean energy and provide a sustainable source of electricity.

Biofuels are a great alternative to traditional fossil fuels because they are affordable,

ecologically friendly, locally available, sustainable, and renewable. The enormous biomass

found in the crust of the planet can be used to produce biofuels using the circular economy

idea. They are ideal candidates for bioenergy generation due to their high organic content,

chemical oxygen demand (COD), biological oxygen demand (BOD), etc. In order to combat

the depletion of fossil fuels and environmental contamination, bioenergy production from agro-

industrial wastes, a significant biomass feedstock, is seen as a potential technique. Agro-

industrial wastes can be used as feedstocks in big numbers, which eliminates the problems with

35
waste management that arise when trash builds up and has a negative impact on the

environment and human health (Nair et al., 2022).

The main economic engine of Ethiopia is agriculture. Yet soil degradation, or a loss in

soil quality, is a serious ecological issue in the nation that endangers both agricultural output

and terrestrial ecology. Salinization, flooding, drought, erosion, and waterlogging are only a

few of the human activities that exacerbate soil deterioration. Other factors include improper

irrigation management, deforestation, and land abuse. By implementing agricultural techniques

and systems that regenerate soil by enhancing fertility, boosting biological activity, and

increasing SOC, soil deterioration may be prevented and reversed (Gedamu, 2020).

The continuous degradation of natural forests leads to drought, flood, disturbance in

nutrient cycling, increasing atmospheric CO2, soil erosion, and loss of biodiversity. The

demand on forests for housing and other land uses has increased as a result of the ongoing rise

in human population, forest land conversion for agriculture, industry, power projects,

irrigation, roads, urbanization, private encroachments, and improper forest management

(Saikia et al, 2021). To put forth measures that can prevent and reverse the process, it is

necessary to determine whether forests are degrading and the causes of the degradation. In

order to identify and carry out future measures with the primary goal of attaining no

environmental deterioration in the future, avoidance, prevention, and reduction need to take

priority over reclamation of previous degradation. Involve regional planning, stakeholders, and

particularly land users in the search, design, implementation, and monitoring of all actions and

interventions. Applied tactics must take into account local and customary conditions in addition

to scientific understanding (Jaskulak & Grobelak, 2021).

One of the biggest problems that humanity is currently facing is air pollution, which

has a negative influence on ecosystems and human health (Dastoorpoor, 2019). Carbon

monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO2), particulate matter (PM10, PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide

36
(NO2), and ozone (O3) are air pollutants that have been linked to lung cancer, cardiovascular

disease, and other respiratory illnesses, among other chronic conditions.

Cutting back on emissions is arguably the most efficient strategy to reduce air pollution,

independent of spatiotemporal boundaries. The effectiveness of air pollution control is

influenced by the economic standing, governmental priorities, and political environment of the

nation. In this situation, a transparent, feasible policy structure should be adaptable enough to

deal with local issues (Anwar et al., 2021).

CONCLUSION & RECOMMENDATIONS

With the fast development of different sectors around the world, energy has been one

of the most identifiable key components of this growth. Today, research about new progression

on energy has been available. Most of this research aims to develop much more efficient energy

production systems. However, with the fast growing and expansion of energy research, its

consumption is also growing. Active research topics today focus mainly on the aim of

systematizing energy utilization as much as possible. Problems that are mostly being

rediscovered and solved in the age of energy research today mainly focuses on its sources, as

the world is having an unbalanced and unavailable energy between nations and regions.

Through the problems presented in the last years, a deeper knowledge and study on the field of

energy sources and alternative solutions are being researched in today's time. One of the few

sources that are being approached today are Nuclear Power, Ocean Wave Energy, Fossil Fuel,

and Biomass.

However, as sources of energy are being researched in today’s time, many scientists,

engineers, and scholars discover and identify some environmental problems and impacts

caused by these sources. With the objectives of this study to identify the environmental impacts

37
of various energy sources, solutions to these problems are also presented. Cross-reading among

different published researches has been used by the researchers to identify the different

schemes to solve the problems of the identified energy sources.

To further understand the objectives of this study, the findings, conclusions, and

recommendations have been presented below.

Objective 1: Identify the various impacts of the studied energy sources on the Environment.

Findings:

1. The underground mining for fossil fuels causes acid rain, acid rain degrades

receiving water quality by lowering the pH and increasing the dissolved metal

content of surface and groundwater. Burning of fossil fuels causes global

warming, the combustion of these fuels produces massive amounts of airborne

fine respirable ozone. Combustion of fossil fuel/coal causes soil pollution,

polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a soil pollutant that causes

changes in grain size, porosity, and water-holding capacity due to the

combustion of fossil fuels.

2. Nuclear energy has its own impacts on the environment. Mining of uranium ore

causes degradation of natural habitats, uranium ore mining spillage causes

radionuclide concentrations in stream sediments. Water as a coolant system for

Nuclear Reactors causes thermal pollution, a high amount of water temperature

disrupts natural environmental activities and settings. Fuel fabrication process

causes toxic gas, toxicity from Hydrogen Fluoride and Fluoride used in the

production of Uranium Hexafluoride is released as a highly corrosive gas from

enrichment plants.

38
3. There are lots of processes for ocean wave energy. The WECs, marine current

turbines, and marine power transmission cables that are fixed to ocean floor,

and OWC causes loss of connectivity and habitat integrity, It alters sediment

transport patterns and causes scour on the ocean floor, resulting in habitat

disruption and loss of connectivity among marine species. Submerged turbines

and submerged WECs have changes in the availability of nutrients and

ecological reactions, It alters the ocean's mitigation paths, water salinity, and

temperature, causing changes in nutrient distribution. OTEC plants and floating

WECs have water column modification (physicochemi-cal properties and

coastline dynamics), It causes changes in the ocean's waves as well as changes

in current patterns locally at neighboring sites or towards the coast, resulting in

further changes in oceanographic processes. Turbines and WECs have loud

noise and vibration that causes disturbance to the environment. The noise is

caused by both the mechanical operation of the turbine and the aerodynamic

forces of the wind on the turbine blades.

4. There are lots of impacts to the environment by using biomass power plants ,

Crop residue burning causes Loss of soil nutrients and destruction of soil

organic carbon and biota, Burning crop residue causes pollution and nutrient

loss. Various nutrients were lost during the biomass burning process.

Conversion of forest areas into other land use causes deforestation, Increased

fire activity and, as a result, emissions of trace gasses and aerosols from biomass

burning, which have an impact on climate, air quality, and human health.

Anthropogenic emissions from the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels, road

dust, and industrial activities causes air pollution, These emissions contribute to

39
 the increase in volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds (VOCs), CO,

NOx, CH2O, CH4, and SO2 levels in the atmosphere.

Conclusion: Energy sources such as fossil fuel, nuclear energy, ocean wave energy,

and biomass power plants have serious environmental consequences. Using these

energy sources will degrade the environment and eventually lead to a global crisis. The

environmental effects largely affect the surroundings of the power plants, even

exceeding to a global scale. Mostly the affected population are the animals and plants

found. The effects alter the natural events that happen in the environment, affecting the

behavioral patterns and growth around the area. The effects doesn’t only affect animals

and plants, but also reaches humans through contact and the food chain. Alternative

methods and solutions must exist, researched and discovered for all energy sources.

Power plants should implement the identification measures of negative effects for all

energy sources. Every power plant should be manufactured with a focus on the negative

effects rather than the positive effects or sales.

Objective 2: Identify appropriate design treatment schemes for waste disposal.

Findings:

1. Appropriate waste disposal treatment schemes in Fossil Fuel Power Plants. The

first problem is global warming. Shifts to other alternative clean types of energy

are possible solutions to this problem. The specifics of how this potential

solution should be implemented include the rapid phaseout of fossil-fuel-related

emissions and the transition from fossil to renewable, clean energy sources,

which has the potential to reduce morbidity and mortality from aerosol

pollution. Soil pollution is the second issue. The first approach is solvent

extraction/soil washing. Details on how to implement this possible solution are

40
 used to separate compounds based on their solubility. This method can be used

to remove PAHs from contaminated soils. Thermal treatment is the second

possible solution. The specifics of how this potential solution should be

implemented are as follows: Thermal treatment for soil remediation uses heat

to destroy contaminants by converting them to gas. Electrokinetic treatment is

the third possible solution. The details on how to implement this potential

solution the electrokinetic technique uses direct electric current to remove

organic and other contaminants from soil (inorganic and heavy metals).

Chemical oxidation is the fourth possible solution. The specifics of how this

potential solution should be implemented in this treatment involve electron

transfer from one chemical to another, converting hazardous contaminants into

less toxic or non-hazardous compounds.

2. Appropriate waste disposal plans in nuclear power plants. Thermal pollution is

the first issue. This problem's possible solution(s) is water usage as a coolant

for nuclear power plant reactors being reduced. Details on how this possible

solution should be implemented on reactors using Pressurized Water Control

Systems. Toxic gas is the second issue. The Possible Solution/s in this problem

are substantiating the production of hydrogen fluoride from uranium

hexafluoride. The details on how this possible solution should be implemented

are provided. A hydrogen-containing fuel and an oxygen-containing oxidant are

treated in the flame.

3. There is no waste generated by ocean wave energy, but there is pollution in the

form of vibration and noise pollution. Using a Triboelectric Nanogenerator is

one possible solution to this problem (TENG). The Triboelectric Nanogenerator

(TENG) can then be deployed in the ocean, where it can harvest energy from

41
 the mechanical motion of the waves without increasing noise and vibration. This

technology has the potential to significantly reduce the environmental impact of

ocean energy while also providing a long-term source of power.

4. Waste disposal plans that are appropriate in Biomass Power Plants. The first

issue is the loss of soil nutrients as well as the destruction of soil organic carbon

and biota. Enhancing soil biology is one possible solution. The specifics of how

this potential solution should be implemented are provided. By catalyzing redox

reactions, soil microbes directly regulate the biogeochemical cycling of carbon,

nutrients, and trace elements. Deforestation is the second issue. Adoption of

sustainable agroforestry, sustainable logging, agro-pastoral production systems,

and so on are possible solutions. Details on how to implement this potential

solution deforestation mitigation strategies must be effectively implemented,

which necessitates acknowledging the responsibilities of national, state, and

local governments, as well as the proactive activities of civil society and private

society. The third problem is air pollution. The possible solution is cutting down

emissions. The details on how this possible solution should be implemented

include improving legislation, increasing tree canopies, providing alternatives

for stubble burning, and promoting low-sulfur fuel. Air pollution is the third

issue. A possible solution is to reduce emissions. The specifics of how this

potential solution should be implemented include improving legislation,

increasing tree canopy, providing alternatives to stubble burning, and promoting

low-sulfur fuel.

Conclusion: Fossil fuel, nuclear power, ocean waves, and biomass power plants are

sustainable energies that help in people’s everyday life. However, these energies have

different negative impacts to the environment, especially when it comes to waste

42
disposal. In terms of fossil fuel power plants, global warming and soil pollution are

their by-products which bring waste to the environment. For global warming, the

applicable solution is transition from the mentioned type of energy to renewable energy

sources. Meanwhile, in soil pollution, four approaches can be done: (1) solvent

extraction/soil washing, (2) thermal treatment (3), electrokinetic treatment, and (4)

chemical oxidation. On the other hand, in terms of nuclear power plants, two issues

regarding waste disposal were identified by the researchers. These are thermal pollution

and toxic gas emission. Design treatment schemes for these are using Pressurized Water

Control Systems and substantiating the production of hydrogen fluoride from uranium

hexafluoride, respectively. Moreover, in terms of ocean energy, there is no waste

produced in harnessing ocean energy. However, noise pollution is being produced

through the process. Design treatment scheme for this type of energy is TENG which

can be used in eliminating noise produced by WECs and turbines. Furthermore,

biomass produces waste which results in loss of solid nutrients and destruction of

organic carbon and biota. It also produces waste through deforestation and air pollution.

To mitigate these impacts, solutions that can be done are: (1) enhancing soil biology,

(2) adoption of sustainable agroforestry, sustainable logging, agro-pastoral, production

systems, and many other related solutions.

Objective 3: Identify solutions to reduce negative environmental impact of the studied

energy sources power plants.

Findings:

1. The first problem is drainage caused by acid rain is fossil fuel energy. The

surrounding area suffers from a number of issues as a result of mining. This

issue has a lot of potential solutions. The use of covering material, which uses

43
waterproof materials like clays or plastics to cover exposed areas/tailings and

stop their oxidation, is the initial approach. The second solution, known as

stabilization using alkaline materials, entails adding alkaline materials to

tailings, voids, and other geological environments where AMD can occur. The

third method, called passivation or microencapsulation, can stop the reactive

mineral components from oxidizing by using hydrophobic coating materials.

The use of bactericides, whose main goal is to reduce the number of bacteria

that oxidize sulfur, is the fourth option. The fifth option is called "water

ingression control," and it relies on the idea of removing as little water as

possible from opencast trenches and voids around mined areas. Backfilling

voids and open stenches is the final option. To stop AMD formation, voids, and

pits, can be filled with topsoil rocks or alkaline materials that have been

excavated. The second problem is global warming, which is mostly caused by

atmospheric carbon dioxide emissions. switching to a different clean and secure

alternative energy source. The third problem is soil contamination brought on

by fossil fuels. There are four options for handling this issue. The first method

utilizes solvent extraction/soil washing to separate chemicals according to how

soluble they are. The second option is thermal treatment, which converts

pollutants into a gas by the use of heat to destroy them. The third solution is the

electrokinetic treatment. This method involves removing organic and other

pollutants from the soil using direct electric current. The fourth solution is

chemical oxidation which involves electron transfer from one chemical to

another chemical and converts hazardous contaminants into less toxic or non-

hazardous compounds.

44
2. Radionuclides can be converted into a safe and stable form to prevent the

degradation of habits. The "pump-and-treat" system, however, is the most

simple method of wastewater treatment. It is advised to employ pressurized

water control systems on reactors to reduce thermal pollution. Also, it is

recommended to prove that hydrogen fluoride can be made from uranium

hexafluoride when dealing with dangerous gas. treatment in the presence of an

oxidant and fuel that contain oxygen and hydrogen.

3. The use of WECs as power sensors is one potential remedy for connectivity loss

and habit integrity. The use of WECs as power monitors would lessen damage

to local flora and fauna while also having an effect on how quickly they grew.

In solving the change in the availability of nutrients and ecological reactions,

utilizing spar buoy in gathering energy. The next issue is water alteration

(physicochemical properties and coastline dynamics). Using a Piezoelectric

Wave Energy Converter could be the answer (P-WEC). The use of a

triboelectric nanogenerator is one potential remedy for the rise in noise and

vibration (TENG).

4. Enhancing soil biology could be a potential solution to the destruction of soil

organic carbon and biota, loss of soil nutrients, and loss of soil nutrients.

Through catalyzing redox reactions, soil bacteria directly control the

biogeochemical cycle of carbon, fertilizers, and trace elements. Adopting

sustainable agroforestry, sustainable logging, and agro-pastoral production

systems are suggested strategies to stop deforestation. Reducing emissions is

one approach to combating air pollution. Moreover, this issue may be resolved

by strengthening the law, expanding tree cover, offering alternatives to burning

stubble, and promoting low-sulfur fuel.

45
 Conclusion: The environmental effects of the four (4) energy sources ranges from the

flora and fauna of the surrounding area of the power plant and reaches the entire globe

in terms of affectivity. Most effects caused by these power plants are the degradation

of the habitats and the changes in the natural movements in the domain. To control the

effects as well as stop the probable problems caused by these sources of energy,

different processes are used in each of the energy sources. The control measures are

ranged from physical, chemical and biological control systems. Some use advanced

technology and modifications on the designs of each source of energy, there are also

solutions that involve the use of hybrid systems between the energy sources to reduce

the probable effects of the energy sources towards the environment. Remedies and

alternatives are one of the most effective solutions to the rising problems of every

source of energy. Enhancement technology and methods are also implemented around

the surrounding areas to help the growth of the flora and fauna caused by the power

plants, there are also cases in which alteration of the environment are needed to keep

the life cycle around the power plant.

Recommendations: The research paper presents the environmental impacts of the four energy

sources, fossil fuel, nuclear energy, ocean wave energy, and biomass. The paper presents the

solutions to the environmental impacts; however, it is found out that some systems of energy

sources don't have any counter design measures and only present treatment methods to the

effects of the energy systems to the environment. Moreover, some design treatments are not

viable to the flora and fauna of an affected area, these results to only a much lesser effect to the

environment and habitat. Moreover, as the environment is being affected by these sources of

energy, humans are also affected through health, livelihood and entertainment. It is

recommended by the researchers to have a further development of research to understand how

these systems work and to further elaborate the effects of these systems to the environment.

46
Moreover, it is recommended to other researchers to further find other methods of limiting the

effects of these systems through design schemes and better treatment methods that would fully

reduce the effects of the systems to the environment. It is also proposed by the researchers,

basing from the readings, to further study treatment methods that wouldn’t require other

procedures into controlling the sub-effects of the remedy treatment to the environment. In

addition, it is also recommended to energy users to limit their use of energy to the most optimal

procedure as possible, this reduces the depletion and use of energy, thus reducing the possible

effects of these energy systems. Furthermore, the researchers recommend researching the

environmental effects of other sources of energy, and how to solve each environmental impact.

From the solutions of the other sources of energy, it may be connected to the discussed sources

and use hybrid systems to solve the environmental impact of both energy sources. This paper

further elaborates that it can be used as a framework for other research that would target the

same topic, effects of energy systems to the environment.

47
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