Geothermal energy is a technically-proven, cost effective source of el
ectrical and thermal energy that has been utilized for many decades. R
ecent estimates indicate that over 6700 MWe (megawatts electrical) and
8200 MWt (megawatts thermal) are currently developed throughout the w
orld. This paper discusses the specific environmental advantages to th
e development of geothermal electrical power and direct use projects a
nd demonstrates how environmental impacts can be easily mitigated usin
g existing technologies. In the areas of CO2, NOx, and SO2 emissions,
land disturbance per MWe and disposal of waste products, geothermal en
ergy has significantly fewer impacts than most other energy sources, p
articularly conventional fossil and nuclear fuels. Examples are sited
where geothermal developments have occurred in pristine areas with no
significant impacts and even offering the opportunity for improving en
vironmental conditions. There is a strong need for energy policy maker
s throughout the world to recognize the environmental advantages of ge
othermal energy and to incorporate their economic value when pricing a
nd selecting new sources of energy. Copyright (C) 1996 Published by El
sevier Science Ltd.