If global warming (or air pollution) isn't sufficient reason for us to change the way we use and generate energy, then maybe this article in the New York Times on the acidification of the oceans by the absorption of carbon dioxide should make us sit up and take notice.
The oceans have long buffered the effects of climate change by absorbing a substantial portion of the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide. But this benefit has a catch: as the gas dissolves, it makes seawater more acidic. Now an international panel of marine scientists says this acidity is accelerating so fast it threatens the survival of coral reefs, shellfish and the marine food web generally.