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Coal and Energy
Coal is a nonrenewable resource, created millions of years ago. The more we use now, the less we have for the future. In addition, when coal is burned, it gives off carbon dioxide – a greenhouse gas linked to global warming and air pollution. These two facts alone are indications that we should start depending more on renewable resources (such as wind power and solar power), because at some time or another we will run out of coal and we will have to have a dependable source of energy. Renewable resources are starting to be used, but until the technology makes it efficient enough to use on a regular basis, one thing we can do is simply use less. In the U.S., 92% of the coal we use goes towards electricity, which we use mostly to heat, cool and light our homes. (We also use a considerable amount on refrigerators and other appliances, however those elements are not as easily controlled, as they are either always on or only used when needed anyway.) We can use less by turning down the heat/air conditioning, turning off the lights when they are not necessary, and walk places instead of driving.  The system below indicates that more coal is required to produce more electricity, but the more electricity we use, the less coal we have. Increased atmospheric carbon dioxide is also an output of coal burning, which is a main factor in global warming.  ~ Sarah Palmisano |