Our research focuses on three major scales of analysis: global, national, and campus-based. On a macro level, it was evident that an increase of carbon emissions correlated with an increase in global temperature anomalies, conveying that the rise of global temperatures could catalyze dangerous patterns for the future of society. Examples given include: food security, water purity, and overall human health. This staggering pattern naturally invites discussion about possible solutions to the emerging climate and emissions crisis. After describing renewable energy more generally, the video hones in on geothermal energy production. Geothermal energy takes advantage of the heat and pressure of the earth’s crust. Hot water, when pumped from underground, transforms into steam due to the drop in pressure at the surface of the earth. This steam then spins a turbine, turning heat into electricity. A special emphasis is placed on the capacity and geographic location of the 30 geothermal energy plants in the United States with the highest production potential. After describing solutions that are found on a more global and national scale, the project focuses specifically on geo-exchange bores found on Princeton University’s campus. Through campus observations, interviews with campus staff, and taking advantage of published informational material, we provided an accessible, yet insightful, description of geo-exchange bores and the heat transfer fundamental to this process. With a final survey of student opinions of construction, this video serves as a relevant reminder of the necessity of a more sustainable campus -- and a more sustainable world.
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