What is one advantage of gas turbines in terms of environmental impact?

Gas turbines indeed offer a significant advantage in terms of their environmental impact primarily because they result in lower emissions compared to coal-fired systems. This reduction in emissions is due to the more efficient combustion of natural gas, which produces less carbon dioxide (CO2) per unit of energy generated. Additionally, gas turbines emit fewer nitrogen oxides (NOx) and sulfur oxides (SOx), both of which contribute to air pollution and acid rain.

In the context of energy generation, the cleaner burning characteristics of natural gas as a fuel source highlight why gas turbines are often considered a more environmentally friendly option compared to traditional coal power plants. This makes them an attractive choice for both regulatory compliance and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.

The other options present aspects that do not reflect advantages in terms of environmental impact. Higher water usage would be a negative factor rather than a positive one, significant waste generation also indicates a disadvantage, and while renewable fuel dependency might be an emerging characteristic in various sectors, it does not specifically align with the established advantages of current gas turbine technology.