Question

Explain the various consequences of over-extraction of fossil fuels.

Answer 1

An extreme use of the fossil fuels such as coal, gas and petroleum, to satisfy the requirements of the ever increasing human population, all over the world has led to their over-extraction. The consequences of over extraction of fossil fuels are:
a. Exhaustion of existing reserves: The over-extraction of fossil fuels depletes the Earth of its reserves and if this continues, we will face a severe energy crisis in the near future.
b.Air pollution: Burning the fuels such as coal and petroleum, releases greenhouse gases into the atmosphere causing global warming. Pollutants such as carbon monoxide, sulphur oxides and nitrogen oxides are also released into the air causing air pollution.
c. Threat to organisms: Coal contains toxic metals such as mercury which when released into atmosphere settles in water with the passage of time. This water enters the aquatic animals such as fishes, which in turn can harm other animals and humans who consume them.