Compare the environmental impact of using fossil fuels with the environmental impact of using wind turbines for electricity generation.

AQA GCSE Physics (8463) — 4.1.3 National and global energy resources · Compare · 4 marks · View as Markdown

Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).

Model answer (4 marks)

Fossil fuels release harmful emissions such as CO₂, methane and sulphur oxides when burned, contributing to air pollution and climate change. Their extraction and mining also destroy landscapes and habitats. In contrast, wind turbines generate electricity without emitting CO₂ or other pollutants during operation. However, they can be considered an eyesore and cause visual pollution, though they do not destroy the landscape to the same extent as fossil fuel extraction.

Examiner tips

  • Use the word ‘compare’ to show both positives and negatives of each source
  • Mention specific emissions for fossil fuels and the lack of emissions for wind
  • Include the impact of extraction vs visual impact of turbines
  • Keep answer concise and use exam‑style terminology

Common mistakes

  • Failing to mention CO₂ or other pollutants from fossil fuels
  • Over‑generalising wind turbines as ‘clean’ without noting visual impact
  • Not distinguishing between extraction damage and visual pollution

Mark scheme (4 marks)

  1. Burning fossil fuels releases harmful emissions (e.g. carbon dioxide / greenhouse gases / pollutants)
  2. Wind turbines produce no harmful emissions / pollutants during electricity generation
  3. Extraction / mining of fossil fuels destroys landscapes / habitats
  4. Wind turbines can be considered an eyesore / cause visual pollution (but do not destroy the landscape in the same way)

Key terms in this question

fossil fuels

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