Fossil fuels

Formation of Fossil Fuels

• Fossil fuels including coal, oil and natural gas are formed from the fossilised remains of prehistoric plants and animals.
• The process takes millions of years, during which heat and pressure transform these remains into carbon-rich energy sources.

Extraction and Use of Fossil Fuels

• Fossil fuels are extracted from the earth through processes such as mining (for coal) and drilling (for oil and gas).
• They are then processed and burned (combusted) to generate power, producing a large amount of energy.

Environmental Impact

• Burning fossil fuels releases greenhouse gases, like carbon dioxide, contributing to climate change.
• They also release harmful pollutants like sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides that can lead to air pollution and acid rain.

Non-Renewable Nature

• Fossil fuels are non-renewable resources, meaning once used, they cannot be replenished.
• The world’s fossil fuel reserves are finite and are being depleted at a rapid rate.

Alternatives to Fossil Fuels

• To mitigate the damaging environmental effects and future scarcity of fossil fuels, alternatives such as renewable energy sources and nuclear power are being explored and utilised.
• Increasing the efficiency of energy use and adopting more sustainable living practices are also means to reduce dependency on fossil fuels.