In the United Kingdom, there are many sources of energy that are used to power homes, businesses, and industries. These sources of energy can be broadly classified into two categories – renewable and non-renewable. Renewable sources of energy are those that can be replenished naturally within a short period of time, such as wind, solar, hydro, and biomass. In contrast, non-renewable sources of energy are those that are finite and will eventually run out, such as coal, oil, and natural gas.
Among these non-renewable sources of energy, the one that is not renewable is coal. Coal is a fossil fuel that is formed from the remains of plants and animals that died millions of years ago. It is found in underground mines and is extracted through a process called mining. Coal is used as a fuel to generate electricity in power plants, as well as in industries such as steel and cement production.
The use of coal as a source of energy has been prevalent in the UK for centuries. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, coal was the primary source of energy for industry and transportation. However, with the discovery of oil and natural gas, the use of coal declined. Today, coal accounts for only a small fraction of the UK’s energy mix. According to the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, coal accounted for only 1.8% of the UK’s electricity generation in 2020.
Despite its declining use, coal remains a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. When coal is burned, it releases carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming. In addition, the mining and transportation of coal can have negative impacts on the environment, such as land degradation, water pollution, and air pollution.
Due to its negative impact on the environment and its finite nature, the UK government has taken steps to phase out the use of coal. In 2015, the government announced that it would close all coal-fired power plants by 2025, and in 2019, it announced that it would bring the closure date forward to 2024. This move has been welcomed by environmental groups, who argue that it is necessary to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change.
In conclusion, coal is the non-renewable source of energy that is not renewable in the United Kingdom. While it has been a significant source of energy in the past, its use has declined due to the discovery of other sources of energy and its negative impact on the environment. The UK government’s decision to phase out the use of coal is a step in the right direction towards a more sustainable and cleaner energy future.
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