Article: Climate or coal?

Question 1

What is the greenhouse effect?

Answer 1

Carbon dioxide prevents natural heat loss from the earth’s atmosphere.

Question 2

Is the greenhouse effect natural?

Answer 2

The greenhouse effect is completely natural - without it the planet would be extremely cold.

Question 3

What is the link between coal and the greenhouse effect?

Answer 3

Burning coal for electricity releases more CO2 into the atmosphere - meaning even less heat can escape. This leads, over time, to global warming.

Question 4

How much of the world’s electricity is produced by coal power plants?

Answer 4

40% of world electricity production comes from coal powered plants.

Question 5

Is coal a major power source?

Answer 5

Coal is a major power source. In fact, 40% of the world’s electricity production currently comes from coal powered plants.

Question 6

How percentage of world carbon emissions come from coal?

Answer 6

70% of world carbon emissions come from coal powered plants.

Question 7

How percentage of world carbon emissions come from coal?

Answer 7

70% of world carbon emissions come from coal powered plants.

Question 8

If coal is such a major pollutant, why do countries still use it?

Answer 8

Even though it is such a major pollutant, countries continue to use coal as it is cheap compared to natural gas.

Question 9

Is coal a clean energy source?

Answer 9

Coal is a “dirty” energy source and has a major effect on human health.

Question 10

What health problems does coal cause?

Answer 10

Coal is a major cause of acid rain and smog. Air pollution caused by coal is linked to heart disease, asthma, and lung disease.