Each renewable resource helps curb global warming by reducing air pollution. Every barrel of oil or ton of coal replaced with these renewable resources will reduce the amount of carbon dioxide put into the atmosphere. Carbon dioxide is considered by many as one of the major contributors to global warming. The State of Hawaii is actively supporting the development of a mix of renewable energy resources including solar power, biomass, hydropower, wind power, geothermal energy, and ocean thermal energy conversion. Wind is the natural movement of air across the land or sea.
Wind is caused by uneven heating and cooling of the earth's surface and by the earth's rotation.
Land and water areas absorb and release different amount of heat received from the sun. As warm air rises, cooler air rushes in to take its place, causing local winds. The rotation of the earth changes the direction of the flow of air. This produces prevailing winds, including Hawaii's trade winds. Surface features such as mountains and valleys can change the direction and speed of prevailing winds.