Coal & Society
The global energy system faces many challenges.
These challenges include widening access to affordable energy supplies. Over 1.6 billion people (25% of the world's population) do not have access to electricity. Affordable, secure and reliable electricity supply enables economic development which is a prerequisite for poverty alleviation.
Coal plays a central role in supporting global economic development, alleviating poverty and is an essential resource to meeting the world's energy needs. Coal currently supplies 26% of primary energy and 40% of electricity generation. Coal use is forecast to rise over 60% to 2030, with developing countries responsible for 97% of this increase, primarily to meet electrification rates.
It is important that we maximise the value to society from the production and use of coal while at the same time minimising any negative impacts. The coal industry is committed to delivering value across the whole coal chain - from production, transportation, right through to utilisation and legacy issues.
In this section
Access to Affordable Energy
Access to modern energy services is critical to development. The provision of dependable and affordable modern energy, particularly electricity, is essential for improving public health, providing modern information and education services and saving people from subsistence tasks, such as gathering fuel.
Safety Issues
Modern coal mines have rigorous safety procedures, health and safety standards and worker education and training.
Coal & Energy Security
As global demand for energy continues to rise - especially in rapidly industrialising and developing economies - energy security concerns become ever more important.
Also
Coal & Local Communities
One of the challenges for mining investments is to ensure a positive contribution to poverty reduction and sustainable development at the community level.