At a town hall meeting, a politician is supportive of a change in the town's energy supply away from fossil fuels. What is the strongest reason the politician could present? (1 point)
obtaining energy quickly rather than having to process and refine materials
reducing the cost of obtaining and transporting energy
using energy that is not harmful to people or the environment
finding an energy source that is nonrenewable
To determine the strongest reason the politician could present for shifting the town's energy supply away from fossil fuels, we need to evaluate each option:
1. Obtaining energy quickly rather than having to process and refine materials: This reason does not directly support the transition away from fossil fuels. Fossil fuels can be accessed quickly, but the negative environmental and health impacts associated with their extraction and use make it an unsustainable option. Therefore, this reason is not the strongest.
2. Reducing the cost of obtaining and transporting energy: This reason holds some merit as transitioning to renewable energy sources like solar or wind power can potentially reduce long-term energy costs. By not relying on fossil fuel imports or fluctuating fuel prices, the town can have more stable and predictable energy expenses. While this reason is valid, it may not be the strongest as there are other important factors to consider.
3. Using energy that is not harmful to people or the environment: This reason is a strong contender. Shifting away from fossil fuels is crucial for mitigating the harmful effects of burning fossil fuels on both human health and the environment. Fossil fuels contribute to air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and climate change. By promoting clean and renewable energy sources, the politician highlights the importance of public health and environmental protection.
4. Finding an energy source that is nonrenewable: This option is incorrect as it goes against the objective of transitioning away from fossil fuels. Nonrenewable energy sources, like coal or natural gas, are still harmful to the environment and contribute to climate change. Therefore, this reason is not relevant in this context.
Based on the evaluation, the strongest reason that the politician could present for shifting the town's energy supply away from fossil fuels is using energy that is not harmful to people or the environment.