Fossil fuels are created from the decay of carbon-based organisms that died millions of years ago. The remains of these organisms create deposits rich in carbon that are extracted and burned for energy and power. Fossil fuels are non-renewable and currently contribute approximately 80% of the world's energy. They are used to produce a wide range of products, including plastic, steel, and other materials. Coal, oil, and gas are all examples of fossil fuels. When fossil fuels are burned, they release large amounts of carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas, into the atmosphere. Greenhouse gases trap heat in our atmosphere, which causes global warming. According to a recent report on methane pollution from the oil and gas industry (last visited Sept. 14, 2020), the average global temperature has already risen, and we are experiencing rising sea levels and extreme weather conditions. The burning of fossil fuels can have negative effects on the environment, air quality, climate, and human health. The extraction, processing, and burning of fossil fuels can have negative health effects on communities.

Toxic gases, such as methane, and other gases, contribute to acid rain.

The combustion of fossil fuels releases harmful compounds like sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides. These compounds can rise into the atmosphere, where they combine with water and oxygen to form acidic pollutants, which contribute to air pollution. Sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides can dissolve in water and be carried by wind, making them part of rainfall, sleet, snow, and fog. Human activities are the main cause of acid rain, with large power plants releasing the majority of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides when they burn fossil fuels such as coal to produce electricity. Gases from cars, trucks, and buses also contribute to air pollution and can cause acid rain.

The image above shows a coal mining industry where the processing of coal releases toxic gases into the atmosphere.

Global warming pollution

Fossil fuels and global warming are closely related, as the presence of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere contributes to an increase in heat and temperature on Earth. The greenhouse effect occurs when carbon dioxide traps heat from the sun and doesn't dissipate from the atmosphere. When fossil fuels are burned, they release a significant amount of carbon dioxide into the air. Petroleum, such as the oil we use in our vehicles from pump stations, contains carbon and hydrogen that have undergone an organic phase.

Ocean acidification

The chemistry of the ocean changes significantly when crude oil, coal, or gas is burned. This makes it more acidic. The ocean absorbs about a quarter of all carbon dioxide emitted into the atmosphere. Since the beginning of the Industrial Revolution, the oceans have become more acidic due to the burning of fossil fuels, according to the Environment and Energy Study Institute. This increased acidity can lead to a decrease in the amount of calcium carbonate in the ocean, which is used by marine organisms to form shells. The reduced growth rate of these species can weaken the shells and disrupt the entire food chain.

Lastly, the rise in sea level can have a severe impact on the climate and can lead to significant changes in the world's weather patterns. Due to the rising sea level, the Earth's glaciers melt at a faster rate. The areas located near water bodies, such as coastal areas and riverbanks, are particularly prone to become submerged. People can also contribute indirectly to air pollution when they buy products that are manufactured and delivered.

As citizens, we can analyze the effects caused by burning fossil fuels and take actions to reduce the burning of fuels to help preserve the environment.

The picture shows a vehicle emitting toxic gases into the atmosphere, contributing to the formation of air pollution.