Assuming we can capture and store emissions, should we continue to rely on coal as a primary energy source?

No

6 of 8

by Kat Derrig

Write now Print Invite a writer™ Add to Favorites RSS Feed Contact this writer

Even assuming we can capture and store emissions, the US should not continue to rely on coal as a primary energy source. I recognize that at this point, coal and oil are essential to keeping the country running, and essential to everyday business and personal life. However, the fact remains that coal is a non-renewable resource, at least not to the point where we could create the kind of volume needed to supply its current mechanisms of use. As a country, we should be moving away from these kinds of resources to more environmentally friendly ones such as hydro- and wind power, and nuclear energy. As the energy needs of the world continue to grow, it is essential we develop energy supplies that are both renewable, and widespread. Continuing to rely on coal, without preparing for a future without it, is short-sighted. Having said that, it is important to balance the energy needs of the country with the environmental factors, as well as the money it takes to research and develop new forms of energy. However, we should be looking to the future to power our homes and factories, not the past.

Coal played a huge role in the industrial revolution, and sparked the wave of development that made most of the western world what it is today. Looking back, however, we can see that the environmental impact was devastating. Wouldn't it be a better use of resources to develop new forms of energy, or improve on alternative energy sources already in use, than to devise ways to capture and store coal emissions? In the long run, this way of operating would be more expensive and time-consuming than using "cleaner" power. Plus, it would be necessary to have in place an entire regulating system for those using coal, to make sure their emissions were properly captured and stored. Even if the majority of manufacturers and factories complied, there would always be the few who were negligent in maintaining environmental standards. Too many resources would have to used to monitor, test, and discipline those employing coal power.

For all these reasons, I think it best to start moving away from coal energy to alternative sources. In the long run, it will save resources, money, and most importantly, our earth.

Learn more about this author, Kat Derrig.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.