Although coal and petroleum are produced by the degradation of bio-mass, yet we need to conserve them. Why?
Coal and petroleum, two of the most vital energy sources that power our modern society, have a fascinating origin rooted in the ancient Earth. They were formed over millions of years through the intricate process of biomass degradation, primarily from the remnants of ancient plant life that thrived in a primordial landscape. These organic materials became trapped beneath the Earth's surface, subjected to intense heat and pressure in anaerobic conditions, transforming them over eons into the fossil fuels we depend on today.
However, the alarming reality is that we are depleting these non-renewable resources at an unprecedented pace, far exceeding the rate at which they can naturally accumulate. In our current state, the Earth is not generating any new coal or petroleum; the specific geological processes that created these resources are exceedingly rare and occur infrequently.
As we continue to consume fossil fuels for energy, the prospect of their complete exhaustion looms ever closer. This urgent situation compels us to prioritize the conservation of these precious resources. Natural resources are not just vital commodities; they are deeply embedded in the fabric of our environment and play a crucial role in sustaining human life and progress in countless ways. By recognizing their immense value, we can better appreciate the importance of safeguarding them for future generations.