Question

Many organizations are looking for ways to reduce the amount of electricity generated by fossil fuels that they use over a given period of time. Which of the following "commons" are these organizations directly seeking to protect?

1) Trees and other wild vegetation worldwide
2) Sources of fresh water
3) The available carbon dioxide pool
4) Ambient air and the global atmosphere

Answer 1

Organizations reducing fossil fuel-based electricity aim to protect the global atmosphere and ambient air by mitigating carbon emissions and global warming, and by using clean energy sources.

Step-by-step explanation:

Organizations seeking to reduce the amount of electricity generated by fossil fuels are directly aiming to protect the global atmosphere and ambient air. The combustion of fossil fuels is a significant source of carbon emissions, which contributes to global warming and climate change. By reducing reliance on these fuels and increasing the share of energy from clean sources, such as solar and wind, organizations contribute to the sustainability of the environment. Furthermore, actions like extensive reforestation can sequester atmospheric carbon, thus addressing the available carbon dioxide pool by acting as natural sinks. These steps collectively help mitigate the adverse impacts on the climate and promote long-term ecological balance.

Answer 2

Organizations aiming to reduce fossil fuel-based electricity consumption are seeking to protect the ambient air and global atmosphere. This is accomplished through energy conservation, switching to renewable energy sources, and promoting sustainable practices.

Step-by-step explanation:

Organizations working to reduce electricity generated by fossil fuels are directly seeking to protect the commons of ambient air and the global atmosphere. These efforts are aimed at mitigating climate change and reducing air pollution that affects human health, ecosystems, and contributes to global warming. Switching to nonpolluting energy sources such as solar or wind energy, conservation of energy, and promoting activities like walking or biking are all approaches that help in decreasing the dependency on fossil fuels.

The shift towards cleaner energy also addresses issues like acid rain, ozone layer depletion, and the carbon footprint of organizations. The understanding that climate change is accelerated by greenhouse gas emissions has led to a growing interest in renewable energy sources. Efforts like increasing energy efficiency, supporting clean energy programs, and reduction of individual carbon footprints can have a substantial impact on preserving our ambient air and global atmosphere.