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Coal Vs Green Energy Essay

749 Words3 Pages

Imagine America in the 20th century, where coal was America’s fuel of choice. Coal-mining towns like Williamson, West Virginia were booming and thriving off America’s insatiable energy appetite, and with this growth came new infrastructure and city centers. It seemed as if these towns will forever be successful. But what happens when America is no longer hungrier for coal, but for other resources like natural gas and green energy? These once seemingly eternal coal towns started to become dull as the rock they mined. The big coal corporations lose business and file for bankruptcy. Towns cannot upgrade their infrastructure, and the once shiny new buildings become the old places most people consider to be part of disgusting poverty-areas. Williamson and other coal towns are facing problems with advancing in today’s world where energy consumption centers around natural gas and cleaner sources of fuel. They …show more content…

Coal is a dirty fuel and burning natural gas is a cleaner option as less carbon emissions are produced. But communities along the Appalachian Mountains have a rich history and culture centered around the coal mining industry. And they seem to be stuck in this lifestyle that is fading with the advent of cleaner sources of fuel. The Appalachian culture shouldn’t exactly be killed off, but rather be added on with new technology and lifestyle.
The once coal-centric towns need to turn towards green energy. They are provided with a rich source of geothermal energy under their feet, and the solar industry is gaining traction. The traditional job of coal mining is dangerous work that can lead to respiratory problems for the workers. These workers need to take up the healthier and growing jobs in the green energy sector. They will not regret the job stability and cleaner environments they will work in. Also, the citizens of coal towns need to embrace a healthier and more sustainable

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