Southern Africa has considerable amounts of coal resources. While tapping into these natural coal resources can bring key economic income into the region, will the use of coal negatively impact the region's environment?
The debate over clean coal technologies is not unique to Southern Africa. Coal-fired electric generating plants are the cornerstone of America's central power system. To preserve this economically-vital energy foundation, innovative, low-cost environmental compliance technologies and efficiency-boosting innovations are being developed by the Energy Department's Fossil Energy research program.
Recently, America.gov invited two climate experts to debate the issue at http://www.america.gov/e-exchange_coal.html . Sasha Mackler, Research Director for the National Commission on Energy Policy, argues that low-carbon coal technology should be used as a first step in addressing climate change. David Roberts, Climate and Energy Writer for Grist.org, argues that emphasizing carbon dioxide emissions is a narrow view that ignores the connection between humans and the planet.
What is your view on clean coal? Do you think that Southern Africa can better develop their coal resources while at the same time balancing the effects of coal usage on the environment?
Model of clean coal electricity production courtesy of http://lugar.senate.gov/graphics/energy/alternatives/electricity/coal.gif
Coal Terminals and additional infrastructure are required in the coal supply chain. Coal newsletters and coal prices show developing economies are more likely to increase their investment into & their use of thermal coal & metallurgical coal in coming years because of its affordability and to meet increasing demands for electricity and steel. www.coalportal.com
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