JOE BOUGHTON: Fossil fuels are a necessary energy source

The demonization of fossil fuels by those who promote man-made climate change is not only wrong but dangerous.

Coal, oil and natural gas were discovered my man and are natural substances. Yes, they do emit CO2 when burned, but the demonization of CO2 is also wrong and dangerous. Humans exhale CO2, and plants inhale it.

It is a natural part of our atmosphere. It is a very small but vital part equalling approximately 400 ppm.

As an example of how coal can be burned cleanly, look no further than the new scrubber stack at Plant Daniel in Jackson County. This coal-fired plant's exhaust appears to be steam with no discoloration of the atmosphere.

Oil is an even more vital resource to any modern society, and it is inherent to much of the materials we use. Almost all plastics come from oil. The energy required to melt and form metal is great and is done with oil or natural gas, either directly or indirectly. Can you imagine our world without plastics and metal?

Modern societies usually seek to progress by utilizing their natural resources. Only a fool would want to sit around in the dark just to feel good about his/her solar panel or windmill. You can bet the politicians promoting man-made climate change aren't going to.

Planes, trains and automobiles run on the refined products from oil and will continue to until man comes up with something else. This won't be anytime soon. Even electric cars are built using parts made from oil.

JOE BOUGHTON

Gautier

This story was originally published December 19, 2015 at 6:45 PM with the headline "JOE BOUGHTON: Fossil fuels are a necessary energy source ."