Pumping Water with Wind at Villa Maria, Pennsylvania
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Author
O’Donnell, Barbara
Date
2007
Degree
Master of Arts in Earth Literacy
Abstract
Wind power, used as a source of energy for the sailing of ships, continues to be
harnessed through the invention of windmills. Cooperating with nature to convert kinetic
energy remains a viable choice for sustainable living.
The project goal of pumping water from an old well by constructing a mechanical
windmill includes research for using wind turbines for producing electricity. A report with
recommendations will be submitted to the Sisters of the Humility of Mary leadership team.
With an almost 14 billion year old narrative, humans are learning the cosmic story
through empirical evidence and scientific understanding. The sun, Earth’s ultimate source of
energy, and the wind, a form of solar power, provide abundantly for nature’s life systems.
Evolutionary processes that stored solar energy in the form of coal, petroleum, and natural
gas resulted from organic matter being heated, cooled, and compressed over eons of time.
They are exhaustible and non-renewable elements. Referred to as fossil fuels, when burned
they produce toxins and contaminants that pollute and diminish the quality of air, water, and
soil. A deeper planetary consciousness enables a new way of thinking regarding advanced
technologies of primary, renewable energies.
Ecologically, wind is integral to an energy flow system that creates no carbon dioxide
or other climate changing gases being strewn into the atmosphere, nor pollutants that settle in
the soil and water. However, all human activity impacts the planet. Concerns are voiced
about wind turbines affecting birds, bats, wildlife habitats, noise levels, and aesthetic views.