Environmental Impact of Natural Gas Usage
Natural gas was first utilized as a fuel source in 1785 in Great Britain. The British harnessed natural gas produced from burning coal to illuminate homes and streets. Since then, natural gas has emerged as a crucial energy source; however, its use has notable environmental implications.
Impact on the Atmosphere
One of the most significant downsides of using natural gas as a fuel source is the emission of harmful carbon dioxide (CO₂) into the atmosphere during combustion. This contributes to long-term climate change and global warming, along with the release of nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and volatile organic compounds.
Impact on Water Resources
The use of natural gas can lead to water contamination. When gas leaks into the atmosphere, nearby water sources can become polluted, affecting vital drinking water supplies for living organisms. This poses health risks not only to humans but also to animals, plants, and various ecosystems.
Impact on Soil Quality
Natural gas has a more pronounced effect on deep soils than on surface ones, due to its rapid evaporation in the air. However, when gas leaks from underground pipes into the soil, it can lead to soil contamination, choking the roots of plants and trees in the affected areas.
Impact on Human Health
Exposure to natural gas can have serious adverse effects on human health, including an increased risk of cancer, decreased lung function, respiratory issues such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cardiovascular symptoms, nervous system damage, developmental delays in children, and even premature death. Vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and smokers, are particularly affected by these health risks.
What is Natural Gas?
Natural gas is a fossil fuel found deep within the Earth. It consists of various compounds, with methane being the predominant component. It also contains smaller amounts of natural gas liquids (NGLs), which are hydrocarbon gases, including carbon dioxide and water vapor.
Extent of Natural Gas’s Environmental Impact
The overall environmental impact of natural gas is influenced by three key factors:
- The extraction methods used to access natural gas beneath the earth’s surface
- The transportation methods employed to move gas from one location to another
- The burning and consumption practices of natural gas
Comparative Environmental Impact of Natural Gas versus Other Energy Sources
Natural gas is considered one of the least polluting fossil fuels compared to other sources. When burned, it produces significantly lower carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions than conventional oil and emissions from coal-fired power plants. Furthermore, the greenhouse gases generated from its combustion have a shorter life cycle.