Natural Gas
Natural gas is a fossil fuel that consists mainly of methane and some other hydrocarbons. It is commonly used as a source of energy for electricity generation, heating, and industrial processes. Natural gas is considered an unsustainable power source.

In the game
In the game Climate Cooldown, "Natural Gas" is an Unsustainable Power card that gives us energy resources but also increases our impact on the planet due to carbon emissions. "Natural Gas" is a power source you can divest from.
Prospective degrees
Environmental engineeringEnergy policy and management
Careers
Methane emissions reduction specialistNatural gas infrastructure inspector
For the classroom
Discussion prompts by grade level
- What is natural gas and how is it used?
- Can you think of any environmental concerns associated with natural gas?
- Describe the extraction, transportation, and combustion of natural gas.
- Discuss the environmental impacts of natural gas production, including air and water pollution.
- Examine the role of natural gas in the energy transition and its implications for climate change mitigation.
- Evaluate the trade-offs between natural gas development, energy security, and environmental sustainability.
- Critically analyze the lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions of natural gas compared to other fossil fuels, including methane leakage and flaring.
- Discuss the complexities of natural gas geopolitics and its influence on global energy markets and environmental policy.
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