Fossil Fuel Origins explores the long geological history of fossil fuels — coal, oil, and natural gas — from their formation in ancient ecosystems to their profound environmental impact today.
It traces how prehistoric plant and animal remains transformed over millions of years into the energy sources that power our modern world.
A key insight is understanding the environmental conditions, such as those during the Carboniferous period for coal, that allowed for the preservation of organic matter.
The book uniquely synthesizes geological, environmental, and energy policy perspectives, bridging the gap between the science and the politics surrounding fossil fuels.
It explains the intricate processes of photosynthesis, sedimentation, and diagenesis in the creation of these fuels, while also detailing the consequences of their extraction and combustion, including greenhouse gas emissions and air/water pollution.
Readers will understand how carbon sequestration rates and pollution levels tie into ongoing debates about climate change and sustainability.
The book progresses systematically, first introducing the geological processes involved, then exploring the environmental consequences, and finally examining the interactions between climate change, fossil fuel dependency, and energy policy.
By integrating data from geological surveys, climate models, and policy reports, Fossil Fuel Origins provides a comprehensive understanding for anyone interested in the Earth Sciences, environmental conservation, and the future of energy.
