Chinese Premier Li Keqiang has called for increased coal production in light of record electricity usage in the country due to the heatwave. Early Summer heatwave has resulted in 8.8 per cent increase in electricity consumption in northwest China while it is 3.2 per cent in north China. These figures were reported by Chinese state media.

In &nbsp;Shandong, Henan and Jiangsu provinces, records for maximum electricity loads were broken.

According to the state media, Li Keqiang "urgeed tapping into advanced coal capacity, securing power supply and resolutely preventing power outages amid the peak summer season”, according to state media.

There were widespread power cuts in China last year. It was also regarded as energy crisis.

Although Keqiang has called for increased coal production to avoid energy crisis, such a step may affect China's ability to meet carbon emission goals.

In 2020, China announced goal of reaching peak carbon emissions by 2030 and becoming a carbon-neutral country by 2060. Although China has reported third consecutive quarter of carbon emission reductions last year, experts have attributed it to Covid pandemic.

Though China invests lot of money in wind and solar, its electrical system remains dependent on coal. It uses more than 50 per cent of the national supply.

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Chinese Premier Li Keqiang has called for increased coal production in light of record electricity usage in the country due to the heatwave. Early Summer heatwave has resulted in 8.

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang has called for increased coal production in light of record electricity usage in the country due to the heatwave. Early Summer heatwave has resulted in 8.8 per cent increase in electricity consumption in northwest China while it is 3.2 per cent in north China. These figures were reported by Chinese state media. In Shandong, Henan and Jiangsu provinces, records for maximum electricity loads were broken. According to the state media, Li Keqiang "urgeed tapping into advanced coal capacity, securing power supply and resolutely preventing power outages amid the peak summer season”, according to state media. There were widespread power cuts in China last year. It was also regarded as energy crisis. Although Keqiang has called for increased coal production to avoid energy crisis, such a step may affect China's ability to meet carbon emission goals. In 2020, China announced goal of reaching peak carbon emissions by 2030 and becoming a carbon-neutral country by 2060. Although China has reported third consecutive quarter of carbon emission reductions last year, experts have attributed it to Covid pandemic. Though China invests lot of money in wind and solar, its electrical system remains dependent on coal. It uses more than 50 per cent of the national supply. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Chinese premier calls for increased coal production

Europe is planning to go back to coal as Russia choked off gas supplies. Experts have warned of climate risks against 'backsliding on fossil fuels'.

Embracing the 'dirty fuel': Russia's gas choke sends Europe back to coal

India's purchases of Russian coal have spiked in recent weeks despite global sanctions on Moscow, as traders offer discounts of up to 30%, according to data reviewed by Reuters.&nbsp;

Russia, facing severe Western sanctions over its invasion of Ukraine, warned the European Union in April against sweeping sanctions on coal, saying they would backfire as the fuel would be redirected to other markets.

India has refrained from condemning Russia, with which it has longstanding political and security ties while calling for an end to violence in Ukraine. New Delhi defends its purchases of Russian goods as part of an effort to diversify supplies and argues a sudden halt would jack up world prices and hurt its consumers.&nbsp;

U.S. officials have told India there is no ban on energy imports from Russia but they do not want to see a "rapid acceleration". Yet as European importers shun trade with Moscow, Indian buyers are lapping up huge quantities of Russian coal despite high freight costs.&nbsp;

Its purchases of coal and related products jumped more than six-fold in the 20 days through Wednesday from the same period a year earlier to $331.17 million, according to unpublished Indian government data reviewed by Reuters.

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Indian refiners similarly have snapped up cheap Russian oil shunned by Western countries. The value of India's oil trade with Russia in the 20 days through Wednesday jumped more than 31-fold to $2.22 billion, the data showed.

"The Russian traders have been liberal with payment routes and are accepting payments in Indian rupee and the United Arab Emirates dirham," one source said. "The discounts are attractive, and this trend of higher Russian coal purchases will continue."

(with inputs from agencies)

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India's purchases of Russian coal have spiked in recent weeks despite global sanctions on Moscow, as traders offer discounts of up to 30%, according to data reviewed by Reuters.

India's purchases of Russian coal have spiked in recent weeks despite global sanctions on Moscow, as traders offer discounts of up to 30%, according to data reviewed by Reuters. Russia, facing severe Western sanctions over its invasion of Ukraine, warned the European Union in April against sweeping sanctions on coal, saying they would backfire as the fuel would be redirected to other markets. India has refrained from condemning Russia, with which it has longstanding political and security ties while calling for an end to violence in Ukraine. New Delhi defends its purchases of Russian goods as part of an effort to diversify supplies and argues a sudden halt would jack up world prices and hurt its consumers. U.S. officials have told India there is no ban on energy imports from Russia but they do not want to see a "rapid acceleration". Yet as European importers shun trade with Moscow, Indian buyers are lapping up huge quantities of Russian coal despite high freight costs. Its purchases of coal and related products jumped more than six-fold in the 20 days through Wednesday from the same period a year earlier to $331.17 million, according to unpublished Indian government data reviewed by Reuters. Also Read: Crypto Crash: Bitcoin last down 7.4 per cent at $18,915 Indian refiners similarly have snapped up cheap Russian oil shunned by Western countries. The value of India's oil trade with Russia in the 20 days through Wednesday jumped more than 31-fold to $2.22 billion, the data showed. "The Russian traders have been liberal with payment routes and are accepting payments in Indian rupee and the United Arab Emirates dirham," one source said. "The discounts are attractive, and this trend of higher Russian coal purchases will continue." (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India's Russian coal buying spikes as traders offer steep discounts: Report

Team building exercises as often carried out by companies to increase camaraderie among employees, instill a sense of team spirit. We have heard of many activities which make the employees come together and try to find solution to a particular problem.

But what if such an exercise sends the team to the&nbsp;hospital?

Ouch indeed!

A team-building exercise in Switzerland sent most of the team to hospital as members suffered burns due to walking on coal. Twenty five people received treatment for burns while thirteen of them were sent to hospital for more severe injuries, reported BBC.

A large emergency response reportedly resulted in 10 ambulances at the scene

The police said that the group walked on a bed of coals several metres long. It is not yet clear what was the problem, whether the coal wasn't arranged properly or those who walked on it didn't follow techniques that may have saved them from receiving burns.

The incident occurred in the Au penisular, south of city of Zurich.

Walking on coal is used as a rite of passage in many corners of the world.

In order to prevent your feet from getting nasty burns, it is often said that a person needs to manage walking in a way that would ensure his/ her feet do not touch the embers for more than two to three seconds at a time. 
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Team building exercises as often carried out by companies to increase camaraderie among employees, instill a sense of team spirit. We have heard of many activities which make the employees come together and try to find solution to a particular problem.

Team building exercises as often carried out by companies to increase camaraderie among employees, instill a sense of team spirit. We have heard of many activities which make the employees come together and try to find solution to a particular problem. But what if such an exercise sends the team to the hospital? Ouch indeed! A team-building exercise in Switzerland sent most of the team to hospital as members suffered burns due to walking on coal. Twenty five people received treatment for burns while thirteen of them were sent to hospital for more severe injuries, reported BBC. A large emergency response reportedly resulted in 10 ambulances at the scene The police said that the group walked on a bed of coals several metres long. It is not yet clear what was the problem, whether the coal wasn't arranged properly or those who walked on it didn't follow techniques that may have saved them from receiving burns. The incident occurred in the Au penisular, south of city of Zurich. Walking on coal is used as a rite of passage in many corners of the world. In order to prevent your feet from getting nasty burns, it is often said that a person needs to manage walking in a way that would ensure his/ her feet do not touch the embers for more than two to three seconds at a time.

Team-building exercise of walking on burning coal sends people to hospital

Australia's new centre-left government submitted&nbsp;more&nbsp;ambitious&nbsp;emissions&nbsp;targets to the United Nations Thursday, seeking to end a decade of footdragging on climate change.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese raised the country's&nbsp;2030&nbsp;emissions&nbsp;reduction&nbsp;target&nbsp;to 43 percent, up from a&nbsp;more&nbsp;modest previous&nbsp;target&nbsp;of 26-28 percent.

The new goal "sets&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;up for a prosperous future, a future powered by cleaner, cheaper energy," Albanese said.

Despite being ravaged by floods, fires and droughts,&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;has long been seen as a laggard on climate action.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-for-first-time-discover-radio-emission-covering-giant-galaxy-with-black-hole-485041">Scientists for first time discover radio emission covering giant galaxy with black hole</a>

The vast continent-country is replete with fossil fuel deposits and is one of the world's top exporters of coal and gas.

Coal still plays a key role in domestic electricity production.&nbsp;

In 2022, MIT ranked&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;52nd of 76 nations on its Green Future Index, which rates how much countries are shifting towards an environmentally sustainable economy.&nbsp;

The 'climate wars'

But Albanese made&nbsp;emissions&nbsp;cuts a centrepiece of his recent election campaign and pledged to "end the climate wars" that led to decades of policy stasis.

Albanese sought to frame the decision as an economic boon: "What business has been crying out for is investment certainty," he said.

The Business Council of&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;welcomed the raised targets, saying they "should be a line in the sand."

"Australia&nbsp;can't afford to stall progress again because failure will see Australians miss out on new opportunities, new industries and better jobs," the council's chief executive Jennifer Westacott said.

Watch |&nbsp;QUAD Summit 2022: Australia aims to attain net-zero emissions by 2050, says PM Anthony Albanese

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'Seize the opportunity'&nbsp;

Albanese said Thursday that world leaders had "all welcomed&nbsp;Australia's changed position" on climate action during his conversations with them since taking power last month.

The issue of&nbsp;emissions&nbsp;reduction and fossil fuel exports was a key point of tension between&nbsp;Australia's previous government and Pacific leaders, who have labelled climate change the greatest threat to their region.

Albanese tried to sidestep criticism that higher targets could harm Australian jobs saying he wanted to "seize the opportunity that is there from acting on climate change".

The new targets would give business the certainty it needed to "invest over a longer time frame than the political cycle of three years," he said.

But he has so far refused to set a deadline for phasing out coal, in line with other rich countries.

Even before the announcement,&nbsp;Australia's fossil fuel industry was in flux with many major companies seeking to decarbonise their operations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/wildfires-broke-emissions-records-this-year-in-these-countries-435158">Wildfires broke emissions records this year in these countries</a>

On Wednesday, global miner BHP announced it had been unable to find a buyer for its coal mines in the Australian state of New South Wales and would instead close the project by&nbsp;2030.

The news came just a day after fossil fuel giant BP announced it would take out a 40.5 per cent stake in a renewables project in&nbsp;Australia, billed as the largest power station on earth.

Anja-Isabel Dotzenrath, BP's executive vice president of gas and low carbon energy, said the company believed that "Australia&nbsp;has the potential to be a powerhouse in the global energy transition".

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Australia's new centre-left government submitted more ambitious emissions targets to the United Nations Thursday, seeking to end a decade of footdragging on climate change.

Australia's new centre-left government submitted more ambitious emissions targets to the United Nations Thursday, seeking to end a decade of footdragging on climate change. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese raised the country's 2030 emissions reduction target to 43 percent, up from a more modest previous target of 26-28 percent. The new goal "sets Australia up for a prosperous future, a future powered by cleaner, cheaper energy," Albanese said. Despite being ravaged by floods, fires and droughts, Australia has long been seen as a laggard on climate action. Also read | Scientists for first time discover radio emission covering giant galaxy with black hole The vast continent-country is replete with fossil fuel deposits and is one of the world's top exporters of coal and gas. Coal still plays a key role in domestic electricity production. In 2022, MIT ranked Australia 52nd of 76 nations on its Green Future Index, which rates how much countries are shifting towards an environmentally sustainable economy. The 'climate wars' But Albanese made emissions cuts a centrepiece of his recent election campaign and pledged to "end the climate wars" that led to decades of policy stasis. Albanese sought to frame the decision as an economic boon: "What business has been crying out for is investment certainty," he said. The Business Council of Australia welcomed the raised targets, saying they "should be a line in the sand." "Australia can't afford to stall progress again because failure will see Australians miss out on new opportunities, new industries and better jobs," the council's chief executive Jennifer Westacott said. Watch | QUAD Summit 2022: Australia aims to attain net-zero emissions by 2050, says PM Anthony Albanese 'Seize the opportunity' Albanese said Thursday that world leaders had "all welcomed Australia's changed position" on climate action during his conversations with them since taking power last month. The issue of emissions reduction and fossil fuel exports was a key point of tension between Australia's previous government and Pacific leaders, who have labelled climate change the greatest threat to their region. Albanese tried to sidestep criticism that higher targets could harm Australian jobs saying he wanted to "seize the opportunity that is there from acting on climate change". The new targets would give business the certainty it needed to "invest over a longer time frame than the political cycle of three years," he said. But he has so far refused to set a deadline for phasing out coal, in line with other rich countries. Even before the announcement, Australia's fossil fuel industry was in flux with many major companies seeking to decarbonise their operations. Also read | Wildfires broke emissions records this year in these countries On Wednesday, global miner BHP announced it had been unable to find a buyer for its coal mines in the Australian state of New South Wales and would instead close the project by 2030. The news came just a day after fossil fuel giant BP announced it would take out a 40.5 per cent stake in a renewables project in Australia, billed as the largest power station on earth. Anja-Isabel Dotzenrath, BP's executive vice president of gas and low carbon energy, said the company believed that "Australia has the potential to be a powerhouse in the global energy transition". WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Australia submits more ambitious 2030 emissions target to United Nations

In pics: Former coal hub Nottingham aims to become Britain's first net zero city

State-run&nbsp;Coal&nbsp;India, the world's largest&nbsp;coal&nbsp;miner, will import the fuel for use by utilities, a power ministry letter seen by Reuters showed on Saturday, as shortages raise concerns about renewed power outages.&nbsp;

It would be the first time since 2015 that&nbsp;Coal&nbsp;India&nbsp;has imported the fuel, highlighting efforts by state and federal officials to stock up to avoid a repeat of April, when&nbsp;India&nbsp;faced its worst power cuts in more than six years.&nbsp;

"Coal&nbsp;India&nbsp;would import&nbsp;coal&nbsp;for blending on government-to-government (G2G) basis and supply ... to thermal power plants of state generators and independent power producers (IPPs)," the federal Power Ministry said in the letter dated May 28.&nbsp;

The letter was sent to all utilities, top federal and state energy officials including the federal&nbsp;coal&nbsp;secretary and the chairman of&nbsp;Coal&nbsp;India.&nbsp;

India&nbsp;is expected to face a wider&nbsp;coal&nbsp;shortage during the third quarter of 2022 due to expectations of higher electricity demand, stoking fears of widespread power outages.&nbsp;

The power ministry said in the letter the decision was taken after nearly all states suggested that multiple&nbsp;coal&nbsp;import tenders by states would lead to a confusion and sought centralised procurement through&nbsp;Coal&nbsp;India.&nbsp;

India&nbsp;stepped up pressure on utilities to increase imports to blend with local&nbsp;coal&nbsp;in recent days, warning of cuts to the supply of domestically mined&nbsp;coal&nbsp;if power plants did not build up&nbsp;coal&nbsp;inventories through imports.&nbsp;

But the power ministry on Saturday asked states to suspend tenders that are "under process".&nbsp;

"The tenders under process by state generators and IPPs for importing&nbsp;coal&nbsp;for blending may be kept in abeyance to await the price discovery by&nbsp;Coal&nbsp;India&nbsp;through G2G route, so as to procure&nbsp;coal&nbsp;at least possible rates," the ministry said.&nbsp;

Coal&nbsp;inventories at power plants have declined by about 13% since April to the lowest pre-summer levels in years.&nbsp;

State-run Coal India, the world's largest coal miner, will import the fuel for use by utilities, a power ministry letter seen by Reuters showed on Saturday, as shortages raise concerns about renewed power outages.

State-run Coal India, the world's largest coal miner, will import the fuel for use by utilities, a power ministry letter seen by Reuters showed on Saturday, as shortages raise concerns about renewed power outages. It would be the first time since 2015 that Coal India has imported the fuel, highlighting efforts by state and federal officials to stock up to avoid a repeat of April, when India faced its worst power cuts in more than six years. "Coal India would import coal for blending on government-to-government (G2G) basis and supply ... to thermal power plants of state generators and independent power producers (IPPs)," the federal Power Ministry said in the letter dated May 28. The letter was sent to all utilities, top federal and state energy officials including the federal coal secretary and the chairman of Coal India. India is expected to face a wider coal shortage during the third quarter of 2022 due to expectations of higher electricity demand, stoking fears of widespread power outages. The power ministry said in the letter the decision was taken after nearly all states suggested that multiple coal import tenders by states would lead to a confusion and sought centralised procurement through Coal India. India stepped up pressure on utilities to increase imports to blend with local coal in recent days, warning of cuts to the supply of domestically mined coal if power plants did not build up coal inventories through imports. But the power ministry on Saturday asked states to suspend tenders that are "under process". "The tenders under process by state generators and IPPs for importing coal for blending may be kept in abeyance to await the price discovery by Coal India through G2G route, so as to procure coal at least possible rates," the ministry said. Coal inventories at power plants have declined by about 13% since April to the lowest pre-summer levels in years.

Coal India to import for first time in years as power shortages loom

The G7 nations have committed to phasing out coal and using greener alternatives. It has also aimed to expand renewable energy production.

G7 nations reach agreement on phasing out coal

The group of 7 countries have reached a concrete agreement on phasing out coal power generation. It also aims at expanding renewable energy production. For more perspective on this, we're joined by Svein Tveitdal, Director Klima2020 and former UN Director.

Climate Tracker: 'Use of coal needs to reduce to avoid climate change impact', says Experts

The environment ministers from the Group of 7 (G7) wealthy countries pledged to curb the use of coal and other fossil fuels for power generation, with the aim of eventual and complete phaseout. However, they have not set a cut-off date on when they would do.

They also said that the energy crunch caused by the Russia-Ukraine war should not derail efforts to fight climate change.

The G-7 countries— Germany, Britain, France, Italy, Japan, Canada and the US— who met in Berlin, also announced a target to have a “highly decarbonised road sector by 2030,” paving the way for zero-emission/ e-vehicles to dominate the sales by the end of the decade.

They also assured to take "concrete and timely steps towards the goal of an eventual phase-out of domestic unabated coal power generation."

Reuters, citing sources familiar with the discussions, claimed that Japan and the United States have indicated that they could not support that date.

The G7 also aimed to start reporting publicly next year on how the countries are delivering on a past commitment to end "inefficient" fossil fuel subsidies by 2025.

The joint communique also urged countries against locking in fossil fuel subsidies designed to weather the impact of the conflict.

"In view of the Russian attack on Ukraine, financial support for companies and citizens affected by severely rising prices for fossil fuels is now on the political agenda for several countries," it said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-global-warming-increase-killer-heatwaves-will-get-more-frequent-report-481799">Global warming made killer heatwaves in India, Pakistan 30 times more likely: Report</a>

"Nevertheless, we aim for our relief measures to be temporary and targeted and we reaffirm our commitment to the elimination of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2025."

Germany, which is the current chair of the G7, has asserted that finding alternative fossil fuels would not happen at the&nbsp;expense of environmental goals.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/climate-change-how-can-coastal-areas-survive-rise-in-sea-level-482461">Climate change: How can coastal areas survive rise in sea level?</a>

The phasing-out&nbsp;issue is likely to be taken up later this year at a meeting of the Group of 20 leading and emerging economies, who are responsible for 80 per cent of global emissions. The G20 will meet in Bali in November.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The environment ministers from the Group of 7 (G7) wealthy countries pledged to curb the use of coal and other fossil fuels for power generation, with the aim of eventual and complete phaseout.

The environment ministers from the Group of 7 (G7) wealthy countries pledged to curb the use of coal and other fossil fuels for power generation, with the aim of eventual and complete phaseout. However, they have not set a cut-off date on when they would do. They also said that the energy crunch caused by the Russia-Ukraine war should not derail efforts to fight climate change. The G-7 countries— Germany, Britain, France, Italy, Japan, Canada and the US— who met in Berlin, also announced a target to have a “highly decarbonised road sector by 2030,” paving the way for zero-emission/ e-vehicles to dominate the sales by the end of the decade. They also assured to take "concrete and timely steps towards the goal of an eventual phase-out of domestic unabated coal power generation." Reuters, citing sources familiar with the discussions, claimed that Japan and the United States have indicated that they could not support that date. The G7 also aimed to start reporting publicly next year on how the countries are delivering on a past commitment to end "inefficient" fossil fuel subsidies by 2025. The joint communique also urged countries against locking in fossil fuel subsidies designed to weather the impact of the conflict. "In view of the Russian attack on Ukraine, financial support for companies and citizens affected by severely rising prices for fossil fuels is now on the political agenda for several countries," it said. Also read | Global warming made killer heatwaves in India, Pakistan 30 times more likely: Report "Nevertheless, we aim for our relief measures to be temporary and targeted and we reaffirm our commitment to the elimination of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2025." Germany, which is the current chair of the G7, has asserted that finding alternative fossil fuels would not happen at the expense of environmental goals. Also read | Climate change: How can coastal areas survive rise in sea level? The phasing-out issue is likely to be taken up later this year at a meeting of the Group of 20 leading and emerging economies, who are responsible for 80 per cent of global emissions. The G20 will meet in Bali in November. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

G7 pledges to phaseout coal and fossil fuel for electricity generation, but no date fixed

Coal perhaps singlehandedly brought about a change of era in humankind's path to progress. On International&nbsp;Coal Miners&nbsp;Day (May 4), this seemingly simple black rock, its impact on the world and also the plight of thousands of coal miners who risked (and even lost) their lives in coal mines, deserve a thought.

Coal is nothing but an energy-rich aggregate of carbon. Its relative abundance and energy-rich nature made it a go-to source of energy, especially during the Industrial Revolution.

Coal mining operations grew tremendously during Industrial Revolution (1760-1840). From running locomotives to heating buildings, coal found applications everywhere. The large demand also meant that huge manpower was poured into coal mining.

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For centuries, coal has remained the primary energy source for industrial operations. As the Euro-centric model of progress and industry was replicated world over by countries that wanted their piece of the pie to ensure their development, coal was used (and mined) across the globe.

Coal is still backbone of industries in many developing countries in the world. As methods to harness renewable sources of energy remain costly even today, poorer countries are still forced to be dependent on coal for their energy needs.

Coal: A 'dirty fuel'?

Coal may have ushered in a new era for humankind but in the information age, it often meets the disapproval of many.

The reason? Tremendous pollution.

Coal is essentially a combustible rock. The carbon content in different types of coal may vary but fact remains that coal is carbon-rich.

As it is burnt to obtain energy, the carbon escapes into the atmosphere in form of various compounds. Some of them are noxious gases.

Carbon dioxide (CO2) contributes to Green House Effect and in turn to Global Warming. Imagine the amount of carbon released in the air due to centuries of coal-burning.

As we battle to slow down global warming, there is an international push to reduce dependency on coal and reduce carbon emissions. Coal, therefore, is increasingly falling out of favour.

Watch | India's coal reserves fall. What does it mean?

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The dilemma

It is true that the use of coal has contributed to increased carbon content in the atmosphere over centuries. The&nbsp;dilemma, and even dispute over reduced dependence on coal&nbsp;has&nbsp;valid arguments on both sides.

Developed nations (which, in most cases, have already burnt their huge share of coal for own&nbsp;progress) are lobbying for reduced use of coal globally. However, many developing and poor countries argue that such compulsions go against their right to ensure their own development.

Efforts are on to find a middle path between these two sides. We may not exclusively&nbsp;be dependent on coal anymore. But the black rock isn't likely to escape our conversations and debates anytime soon!

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Coal perhaps singlehandedly brought about a change of era in humankind's path to progress. On International Coal Miners Day (May 4), this seemingly simple black rock, its impact on the world and also the plight of thousands of coal miners who risked (and even lost) their lives in coal mines, deserve a thought.

Coal perhaps singlehandedly brought about a change of era in humankind's path to progress. On International Coal Miners Day (May 4), this seemingly simple black rock, its impact on the world and also the plight of thousands of coal miners who risked (and even lost) their lives in coal mines, deserve a thought. Coal is nothing but an energy-rich aggregate of carbon. Its relative abundance and energy-rich nature made it a go-to source of energy, especially during the Industrial Revolution. Coal mining operations grew tremendously during Industrial Revolution (1760-1840). From running locomotives to heating buildings, coal found applications everywhere. The large demand also meant that huge manpower was poured into coal mining. For centuries, coal has remained the primary energy source for industrial operations. As the Euro-centric model of progress and industry was replicated world over by countries that wanted their piece of the pie to ensure their development, coal was used (and mined) across the globe. Coal is still backbone of industries in many developing countries in the world. As methods to harness renewable sources of energy remain costly even today, poorer countries are still forced to be dependent on coal for their energy needs. Coal: A 'dirty fuel'? Coal may have ushered in a new era for humankind but in the information age, it often meets the disapproval of many. The reason? Tremendous pollution. Coal is essentially a combustible rock. The carbon content in different types of coal may vary but fact remains that coal is carbon-rich. As it is burnt to obtain energy, the carbon escapes into the atmosphere in form of various compounds. Some of them are noxious gases. Carbon dioxide (CO2) contributes to Green House Effect and in turn to Global Warming. Imagine the amount of carbon released in the air due to centuries of coal-burning. As we battle to slow down global warming, there is an international push to reduce dependency on coal and reduce carbon emissions. Coal, therefore, is increasingly falling out of favour. Watch | India's coal reserves fall. What does it mean? The dilemma It is true that the use of coal has contributed to increased carbon content in the atmosphere over centuries. The dilemma, and even dispute over reduced dependence on coal has valid arguments on both sides. Developed nations (which, in most cases, have already burnt their huge share of coal for own progress) are lobbying for reduced use of coal globally. However, many developing and poor countries argue that such compulsions go against their right to ensure their own development. Efforts are on to find a middle path between these two sides. We may not exclusively be dependent on coal anymore. But the black rock isn't likely to escape our conversations and debates anytime soon! WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

International Coal Miners Day 2022: A look at the black rock that changed our world

With India facing acute coal shortage, Indian Railways, which is run by the central government, has cancelled over 753 passenger trains, the government said. &nbsp;

The government-run Coal India has already hiked production by 27.2% in April to meet the demand, the federal coal ministry said. &nbsp;

The passenger trains have been cancelled to help the coal reach different destinations in the country on time by freeing up the rail tracks, the officials said on Friday. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-reports-3324-new-covid-cases-and-40-deaths-475355" hreflang="en">India reports 3,324 new covid cases and 40 deaths</a>

In total, Coal India accounts for around 80% of coal output of the country. &nbsp;

This comes as the Indian government is making concerted efforts to overcome its worst power crisis in recent years.&nbsp;

"The government has decided to cancel ... passenger trains in order to prioritise the movement of coal rakes (trains) across the country to deal with an unprecedented shortage of the vital input at thermal power plants," the government said. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Indian PM Modi's Europe trip: India looks to boost ties with Europe

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The government has not said how long the train service will be cancelled for, media reports said. &nbsp;

Around 75% power generation is carried out with the help of coal in India. &nbsp;&nbsp;

And these power plants use over three-fourths of the more than one billion tonnes of coal consumption annually. &nbsp;&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

With India facing acute coal shortage, Indian Railways, which is run by the central government, has cancelled over 753 passenger trains, the government said. The government-run Coal India has already hiked production by 27.

With India facing acute coal shortage, Indian Railways, which is run by the central government, has cancelled over 753 passenger trains, the government said. The government-run Coal India has already hiked production by 27.2% in April to meet the demand, the federal coal ministry said. The passenger trains have been cancelled to help the coal reach different destinations in the country on time by freeing up the rail tracks, the officials said on Friday. Also Read: India reports 3,324 new covid cases and 40 deaths In total, Coal India accounts for around 80% of coal output of the country. This comes as the Indian government is making concerted efforts to overcome its worst power crisis in recent years. "The government has decided to cancel ... passenger trains in order to prioritise the movement of coal rakes (trains) across the country to deal with an unprecedented shortage of the vital input at thermal power plants," the government said. Watch: Indian PM Modi's Europe trip: India looks to boost ties with Europe × The government has not said how long the train service will be cancelled for, media reports said. Around 75% power generation is carried out with the help of coal in India. And these power plants use over three-fourths of the more than one billion tonnes of coal consumption annually. WATCH WION LIVE HERE (With inputs from agencies)

To move coal fast by freeing tracks, Indian Railways cancels 753 passenger trains amid shortage  

India is currently facing coal shortage and the government is increasing production and scrambling to supply stocks across the country.

Power cuts in many parts of the country are being blamed in part on the coal shortage. &nbsp;

State-run Coal India, which accounts for 80% of India`s coal output, increased production by 27.2% in April, the federal coal ministry said. Federal government-run Indian Railways has cancelled 753 passenger train services, the government said.

Central government is urging Indian states to increase coal imports for next three years in order to build up coal invetories, said Reuters.

Coal inventories are at the lowest pre-summer levels in at least nine years and electricity demand is seen rising at the fastest pace in nearly four decades.

Hundreds of trains have been cancelled in India in order to free up railway tracks for its transport to corners of the country.

"The government has decided to cancel ... passenger trains in order to prioritize the movement of coal rakes (trains) across the country to deal with an unprecedented shortage of the vital input at thermal power plants," the government said.

It did not say how long the train service would be cancelled for or how commuters would manage without it.

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Coal accounts for nearly 75% of India`s power generation and power plants account for over three-fourths of the over one billion tonnes of annual coal consumption.

(With inputs from agencies)

India is currently facing coal shortage and the government is increasing production and scrambling to supply stocks across the country. Power cuts in many parts of the country are being blamed in part on the coal shortage.

India is currently facing coal shortage and the government is increasing production and scrambling to supply stocks across the country. Power cuts in many parts of the country are being blamed in part on the coal shortage. State-run Coal India, which accounts for 80% of India`s coal output, increased production by 27.2% in April, the federal coal ministry said. Federal government-run Indian Railways has cancelled 753 passenger train services, the government said. Central government is urging Indian states to increase coal imports for next three years in order to build up coal invetories, said Reuters. Coal inventories are at the lowest pre-summer levels in at least nine years and electricity demand is seen rising at the fastest pace in nearly four decades. Hundreds of trains have been cancelled in India in order to free up railway tracks for its transport to corners of the country. "The government has decided to cancel ... passenger trains in order to prioritize the movement of coal rakes (trains) across the country to deal with an unprecedented shortage of the vital input at thermal power plants," the government said. It did not say how long the train service would be cancelled for or how commuters would manage without it. WATCH WION LIVE HERE × Coal accounts for nearly 75% of India`s power generation and power plants account for over three-fourths of the over one billion tonnes of annual coal consumption. (With inputs from agencies)

Coal crisis hits India in hot summer months

India's electricity crisis is expected to worsen in the coming weeks, as coal-fired power reactors run out of fuel. Coal is used to generate around 75% of the country's electricity. As economies opened up after Covid lockdowns, there was a surge in demand for electricity.

India's coal reserves fall. What does it mean?

The&nbsp;European Union on Friday formally adopted its fifth package of&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;against&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;since the country's February&nbsp;24 invasion of Ukraine,&nbsp;including&nbsp;bans on the&nbsp;import&nbsp;of&nbsp;coal, wood, chemicals and other products.

The measures also prevent many&nbsp;Russian vessels and trucks from accessing the&nbsp;EU, further crippling trade, and will&nbsp;ban&nbsp;all transactions with four&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;banks,&nbsp;including&nbsp;VTB.

The&nbsp;ban&nbsp;on&nbsp;coal&nbsp;imports will be fully effective from the second week of August. No&nbsp;new&nbsp;contracts can be signed from Friday, when&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;are to be published in the&nbsp;EU's official journal.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rocket-strike-by-russians-on-station-in-ukraine-kills-30-injures-100-says-report-469355">Rocket strike by Russians on station in Ukraine kills 30, injures 100, says report</a>

Existing contracts will have to be terminated by the second week of August, meaning that&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;can continue to receive payments from the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;on&nbsp;coal&nbsp;exports until then.

"These latest&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;were adopted following the atrocities committed by&nbsp;Russian armed forces in Bucha and other places under&nbsp;Russian occupation,"&nbsp;EU's top diplomat, Josep Borrell, said in a statement.

The Kremlin has said that Western allegations&nbsp;Russian forces committed war crimes by executing civilians in the Ukrainian town of Bucha were a "monstrous forgery" aimed at denigrating the&nbsp;Russian army.

The&nbsp;coal&nbsp;ban&nbsp;alone is estimated by the Commission to be worth 8 billion&nbsp;euros a year in lost revenues for&nbsp;Russia. That is twice as big as the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;Commission's head Ursula von der Leyen had said on Tuesday.

In addition to&nbsp;coal, the&nbsp;new&nbsp;EU&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;ban&nbsp;imports from&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;of many other commodities and products,&nbsp;including&nbsp;wood, rubber, cement, fertilisers, high-end seafood, such as caviar, and spirits, such as vodka, for a total additional value estimated in 5.5 billion&nbsp;euros ($5.9 billion) a year.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine conflict: 'Russia faces a long descent into isolation,' says EU Prez

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The&nbsp;EU&nbsp;also restricted export to&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;of a number of products,&nbsp;including&nbsp;jet fuel, quantum computers, advanced semiconductors, high-end electronics, software, sensitive machinery and transportation equipment, for a total value of 10 billion&nbsp;euros a year.

The&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;also forbid&nbsp;Russian companies from participating in public procurement in the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;and extend prohibitions in the use of crypto-currencies that are considered a potential means to circumvent&nbsp;sanctions.

The Commission said that another 217 people were added to the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;blacklist as part of the&nbsp;new&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;package, meaning their assets in the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;will be frozen and they will be subject to travel&nbsp;bans in the&nbsp;EU.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-russia-conflict-borodyanka-destruction-more-horrific-than-bucha-says-zelensky-469254">Ukraine-Russia conflict: Borodyanka destruction 'more horrific' than Bucha, says Zelensky</a>

Most of them are political leaders of the separatist regions of Luhansk and Donetsk, but the&nbsp;sanctions&nbsp;also hit top businessmen, politicians and military staff close to the Kremlin.

This brings close to 900 the number of people sanctioned by the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;since the start of&nbsp;Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which Moscow calls a "special operation" to demilitarise and "denazify" the country.

The European Union on Friday formally adopted its fifth package of sanctions against Russia since the country's February 24 invasion of Ukraine, including bans on the import of coal, wood, chemicals and other products.

The European Union on Friday formally adopted its fifth package of sanctions against Russia since the country's February 24 invasion of Ukraine, including bans on the import of coal, wood, chemicals and other products. The measures also prevent many Russian vessels and trucks from accessing the EU, further crippling trade, and will ban all transactions with four Russian banks, including VTB. The ban on coal imports will be fully effective from the second week of August. No new contracts can be signed from Friday, when sanctions are to be published in the EU's official journal. Also read | Rocket strike by Russians on station in Ukraine kills 30, injures 100, says report Existing contracts will have to be terminated by the second week of August, meaning that Russia can continue to receive payments from the EU on coal exports until then. "These latest sanctions were adopted following the atrocities committed by Russian armed forces in Bucha and other places under Russian occupation," EU's top diplomat, Josep Borrell, said in a statement. The Kremlin has said that Western allegations Russian forces committed war crimes by executing civilians in the Ukrainian town of Bucha were a "monstrous forgery" aimed at denigrating the Russian army. The coal ban alone is estimated by the Commission to be worth 8 billion euros a year in lost revenues for Russia. That is twice as big as the EU Commission's head Ursula von der Leyen had said on Tuesday. In addition to coal, the new EU sanctions ban imports from Russia of many other commodities and products, including wood, rubber, cement, fertilisers, high-end seafood, such as caviar, and spirits, such as vodka, for a total additional value estimated in 5.5 billion euros ($5.9 billion) a year. Watch | Russia-Ukraine conflict: 'Russia faces a long descent into isolation,' says EU Prez The EU also restricted export to Russia of a number of products, including jet fuel, quantum computers, advanced semiconductors, high-end electronics, software, sensitive machinery and transportation equipment, for a total value of 10 billion euros a year. The sanctions also forbid Russian companies from participating in public procurement in the EU and extend prohibitions in the use of crypto-currencies that are considered a potential means to circumvent sanctions. The Commission said that another 217 people were added to the EU blacklist as part of the new sanctions package, meaning their assets in the EU will be frozen and they will be subject to travel bans in the EU. Also read | Ukraine-Russia conflict: Borodyanka destruction 'more horrific' than Bucha, says Zelensky Most of them are political leaders of the separatist regions of Luhansk and Donetsk, but the sanctions also hit top businessmen, politicians and military staff close to the Kremlin. This brings close to 900 the number of people sanctioned by the EU since the start of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which Moscow calls a "special operation" to demilitarise and "denazify" the country.

European Union adopts new sanctions against Russia including coal import ban

European&nbsp;and&nbsp;Asian&nbsp;coal&nbsp;importers are expected to join the&nbsp;scramble&nbsp;for alternative&nbsp;sources&nbsp;of the fuel as a European Union ban on Russian&nbsp;coal&nbsp;imports looms, analysts and company officials said.

But with top exporters Australia and Indonesia having already hit production limits and major producer South Africa constrained by logistical problems, some importers may struggle to maintain supply levels. The expected rush is likely to keep global&nbsp;coal&nbsp;prices elevated.

The&nbsp;EU&nbsp;ban&nbsp;is to take effect from mid-August, a month later than initially planned, according to two&nbsp;EU&nbsp;sources, following pressure from Germany to delay the measure.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-russia-conflict-borodyanka-destruction-more-horrific-than-bucha-says-zelensky-469254">Ukraine-Russia conflict: Borodyanka destruction 'more horrific' than Bucha, says Zelensky</a>

In top-10&nbsp;coal&nbsp;producer South Africa, Exxaro Resources&nbsp;told Reuters it had already received numerous requests from European countries wanting to sign supply contracts.

It said it has the right quality of&nbsp;coal&nbsp;for the&nbsp;European&nbsp;market, but that current production has already been allocated, and that South Africa's struggling rail network means miners will not be able to export more to meet the increased demand.

"South African&nbsp;coal&nbsp;producers are able to produce more&nbsp;coal, but significant work will need to be done to improve logistics in order to ramp up&nbsp;coal&nbsp;supply for export," Exxaro said.

State-owned rail company Transnet's capacity to haul mineral exports has been limited by cable theft and vandalism.

German energy company Uniper said it has taken steps to ensure its&nbsp;coal-fired power plants in&nbsp;Europe can be technically operated without&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;coal&nbsp;and decided not to extend its&nbsp;Russian supply contracts.

Toby Hassall, a lead analyst with Refinitiv, said most&nbsp;EU&nbsp;buyers' contracts for&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;coal&nbsp;would be for a year or less.

Watch |&nbsp;UK, EU impose new sanctions on Russia in response to reports of Bucha killings

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Very limited spare capacity

Coronado Global Resources, with metallurgical&nbsp;coal&nbsp;operations in Australia and the United States, said it has received queries for&nbsp;coal&nbsp;in recent weeks from&nbsp;Europe.

It expected to be able to meet some of the&nbsp;new&nbsp;demand but said volume, destination and timeframes were confidential. Coronado expects to produce between 18 million and 19 million tonnes in 2022.

"We have plans for growth in future years beyond this," a spokesperson said in emailed comments, without elaborating.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/morning-news-brief-us-ends-normal-trade-ties-with-russia-omicron-lasts-three-days-less-than-delta-and-more-469248">Morning news brief: US ends normal trade ties with Russia, Omicron lasts three days less than Delta, and more</a>

Australian producers Whitehaven&nbsp;Coal&nbsp;and&nbsp;New&nbsp;Hope Corp said they have been approached by prospective customers but their priority was to serve existing customers.

In Asia, at least two utilities in Japan and South Korea have halted&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;coal&nbsp;imports. Others may have to follow suit if sanctions are expanded.

Japan, the world's third-largest&nbsp;coal&nbsp;importer, plans to reduce&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;coal&nbsp;imports gradually while looking for alternative suppliers due to the sanctions against Moscow, the country's industry minister said on Friday. He acknowledged, though, that it would be hard to find alternative suppliers immediately.

Japan's Kyushu Electric Power Co Inc stopped buying&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;coal&nbsp;as of end-March, a company spokesperson said.

Kyushu Electric, which bought 7 per cent&nbsp;of its thermal&nbsp;coal&nbsp;from&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;in the year to March 31, 2021, is procuring supplies from other regions, the spokesperson said, without specifying where.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-50-of-european-population-supports-cannabis-legalisation-report-469008">More than 50% of European population supports cannabis legalisation: Report</a>

"We have no plan to buy&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;coal&nbsp;this financial year," he said.

In South Korea, at least one unit of state utility Korea Electric Power Corp (KEPCO) began diversifying&nbsp;coal&nbsp;supply away from&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;in February, a source with knowledge of the matter said.

European and Asian coal importers are expected to join the scramble for alternative sources of the fuel as a European Union ban on Russian coal imports looms, analysts and company officials said.

European and Asian coal importers are expected to join the scramble for alternative sources of the fuel as a European Union ban on Russian coal imports looms, analysts and company officials said. But with top exporters Australia and Indonesia having already hit production limits and major producer South Africa constrained by logistical problems, some importers may struggle to maintain supply levels. The expected rush is likely to keep global coal prices elevated. The EU ban is to take effect from mid-August, a month later than initially planned, according to two EU sources, following pressure from Germany to delay the measure. Also read | Ukraine-Russia conflict: Borodyanka destruction 'more horrific' than Bucha, says Zelensky In top-10 coal producer South Africa, Exxaro Resources told Reuters it had already received numerous requests from European countries wanting to sign supply contracts. It said it has the right quality of coal for the European market, but that current production has already been allocated, and that South Africa's struggling rail network means miners will not be able to export more to meet the increased demand. "South African coal producers are able to produce more coal, but significant work will need to be done to improve logistics in order to ramp up coal supply for export," Exxaro said. State-owned rail company Transnet's capacity to haul mineral exports has been limited by cable theft and vandalism. German energy company Uniper said it has taken steps to ensure its coal-fired power plants in Europe can be technically operated without Russian coal and decided not to extend its Russian supply contracts. Toby Hassall, a lead analyst with Refinitiv, said most EU buyers' contracts for Russian coal would be for a year or less. Watch | UK, EU impose new sanctions on Russia in response to reports of Bucha killings Very limited spare capacity Coronado Global Resources, with metallurgical coal operations in Australia and the United States, said it has received queries for coal in recent weeks from Europe. It expected to be able to meet some of the new demand but said volume, destination and timeframes were confidential. Coronado expects to produce between 18 million and 19 million tonnes in 2022. "We have plans for growth in future years beyond this," a spokesperson said in emailed comments, without elaborating. Also read | Morning news brief: US ends normal trade ties with Russia, Omicron lasts three days less than Delta, and more Australian producers Whitehaven Coal and New Hope Corp said they have been approached by prospective customers but their priority was to serve existing customers. In Asia, at least two utilities in Japan and South Korea have halted Russian coal imports. Others may have to follow suit if sanctions are expanded. Japan, the world's third-largest coal importer, plans to reduce Russian coal imports gradually while looking for alternative suppliers due to the sanctions against Moscow, the country's industry minister said on Friday. He acknowledged, though, that it would be hard to find alternative suppliers immediately. Japan's Kyushu Electric Power Co Inc stopped buying Russian coal as of end-March, a company spokesperson said. Kyushu Electric, which bought 7 per cent of its thermal coal from Russia in the year to March 31, 2021, is procuring supplies from other regions, the spokesperson said, without specifying where. Also read | More than 50% of European population supports cannabis legalisation: Report "We have no plan to buy Russian coal this financial year," he said. In South Korea, at least one unit of state utility Korea Electric Power Corp (KEPCO) began diversifying coal supply away from Russia in February, a source with knowledge of the matter said.

European, Asian coal users scramble for new sources ahead of EU Russia ban

While the world is discussing ways to reduce carbon emissions to curb greenhouse gases, Beijing is doing the complete opposite. China has completed the construction of the country's biggest coal power station.

China completes the construction of the country's biggest coal power station

A rebound in the global economy could propel coal demand to an all-time high in 2022, according to the International Energy Agency.

According to a report by the watchdog, coal-based electricity production has risen by 9 per cent this year as fossil fuel demand soared during the recovery from Covid lockdowns.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/by-2030-india-will-be-able-to-meet-its-electricity-needs-through-renewable-energy-study-435877">By 2030, India will be able to meet its electricity needs through renewable energy: Study</a>

The pandemic caused coal power to decrease by 4 per cent in 2020, but the IEA data shows that demand for electricity this year outpaced the growth of low-carbon sources, so many wealthy countries remain dependent on fossil fuels.

Global gas supply shortages, which have driven prices up worldwide to record levels, have affected coal demand as well, according to the IEA report.

Overall, global coal demand, including cement and steel production, rose by 6 per cent this year.

Even though the total is below the demand for fuel seen in 2013 and 2014, the IEA warned that without policy intervention, it could surpass those levels next year.

Watch |&nbsp;COP26 climate summit | Can coal by phased-out completely?

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IEA executive director Fatih Birol noted that coal is the single largest source of global carbon emissions and that this year's record coal power generation is an indication of how far off track the global effort to reduce carbon emissions has gone.

Unless governments act quickly to tackle coal emissions – in ways that are fair, affordable, and secure for those affected – we have little chance of limiting global warming to 1.5C, she added.

This report comes in the wake of the COP26 climate talks, which ended in a bitter disagreement over the pledge to abandon coal. After last-minute intervention from India, China the pact's language was changed from "phasing out" to "phasing down".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cop26-china-defends-move-on-joining-india-to-phase-down-instead-of-phase-out-coal-429670">COP26: China defends move on joining India to ‘phase down’ instead of ‘phase out’ coal</a>

Following the climate talks, COP26 president Alok Sharma said&nbsp;that India and China would have to explain themselves to poor nations after watering down the Glasgow agreement adding that he was deeply frustrated by their actions.

India's coal-fired electricity production is expected to increase by 12 per cent this year, according to the IEA report, while China's coal power is expected to grow by 9 per cent despite a recent slowdown.&nbsp;

The IEA says this would be the highest level seen in either country, despite an impressive rollout of solar and wind power projects.

&nbsp;

A rebound in the global economy could propel coal demand to an all-time high in 2022, according to the International Energy Agency. According to a report by the watchdog, coal-based electricity production has risen by 9 per cent this year as fossil fuel demand soared during the recovery from Covid lockdowns.

A rebound in the global economy could propel coal demand to an all-time high in 2022, according to the International Energy Agency. According to a report by the watchdog, coal-based electricity production has risen by 9 per cent this year as fossil fuel demand soared during the recovery from Covid lockdowns. Also read | By 2030, India will be able to meet its electricity needs through renewable energy: Study The pandemic caused coal power to decrease by 4 per cent in 2020, but the IEA data shows that demand for electricity this year outpaced the growth of low-carbon sources, so many wealthy countries remain dependent on fossil fuels. Global gas supply shortages, which have driven prices up worldwide to record levels, have affected coal demand as well, according to the IEA report. Overall, global coal demand, including cement and steel production, rose by 6 per cent this year. Even though the total is below the demand for fuel seen in 2013 and 2014, the IEA warned that without policy intervention, it could surpass those levels next year. Watch | COP26 climate summit | Can coal by phased-out completely? IEA executive director Fatih Birol noted that coal is the single largest source of global carbon emissions and that this year's record coal power generation is an indication of how far off track the global effort to reduce carbon emissions has gone. Unless governments act quickly to tackle coal emissions – in ways that are fair, affordable, and secure for those affected – we have little chance of limiting global warming to 1.5C, she added. This report comes in the wake of the COP26 climate talks, which ended in a bitter disagreement over the pledge to abandon coal. After last-minute intervention from India, China the pact's language was changed from "phasing out" to "phasing down". Also read | COP26: China defends move on joining India to ‘phase down’ instead of ‘phase out’ coal Following the climate talks, COP26 president Alok Sharma said that India and China would have to explain themselves to poor nations after watering down the Glasgow agreement adding that he was deeply frustrated by their actions. India's coal-fired electricity production is expected to increase by 12 per cent this year, according to the IEA report, while China's coal power is expected to grow by 9 per cent despite a recent slowdown. The IEA says this would be the highest level seen in either country, despite an impressive rollout of solar and wind power projects.

Coal demand can rise to an all-time high in 2022: IEA

The climate crisis has been one of the major talking points across all nations after especially the COP26 summit. Leaders have come up with grand plans, they have proposed bills to battle the challenge at hand. Germany's three political parties have come together and agreed to phase out coal by 2030.

German parties agree to phase out coal by 2030: Reports

Defending its move on joining with India in changing “phase down" instead of "phase out" of coal in the final text of the COP26 conference declaration, China asked developed countries to stop using the coal first and provide financial aid to developing countries to adopt green technologies.

Responding to COP26 Chairman Alok Sharma’s comments highly critical of China and India for rejecting calls on “phasing out” coal firepower, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said:&nbsp;“To optimise energy structure and reduce the proportion of coal consumption is an incremental process. The varying national conditions, development stage and resources endowment of different countries should be respected.”

The official told a media briefing that a complete phase out of coal was not possible, as many developing, and least developed countries don’t have adequate finance for an alternate source of energy.

“In many developing countries, not everyone has access to electricity and energy supply is not adequate. Before asking all countries to stop using coal, consideration should be given to the energy shortfall in these countries to ensure their energy security,” he said.

“We encourage developed countries to take the lead in stopping using coal while providing ample funding, technological and capacity-building support for developing countries’ energy transition. We need concrete actions more than slogans,” Zhao added.

On Saturday, negotiators from nearly 200 countries accepted a new climate agreement after the COP26 summit in Glasgow concluded with the deal, which recognises India’s intervention for the world to “phase down” rather than “phase out” fossil fuels.

Alok Sharma said he was “deeply frustrated” after India, backed by China and other coal-dependent developing nations, refused to completely end use of coal energy.

(With inputs from agencies)

Defending its move on joining with India in changing “phase down" instead of "phase out" of coal in the final text of the COP26 conference declaration, China asked developed countries to stop using the coal first and provide financial aid to developing countries to adopt green technologies.

Defending its move on joining with India in changing “phase down" instead of "phase out" of coal in the final text of the COP26 conference declaration, China asked developed countries to stop using the coal first and provide financial aid to developing countries to adopt green technologies. Responding to COP26 Chairman Alok Sharma’s comments highly critical of China and India for rejecting calls on “phasing out” coal firepower, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said: “To optimise energy structure and reduce the proportion of coal consumption is an incremental process. The varying national conditions, development stage and resources endowment of different countries should be respected.” The official told a media briefing that a complete phase out of coal was not possible, as many developing, and least developed countries don’t have adequate finance for an alternate source of energy. “In many developing countries, not everyone has access to electricity and energy supply is not adequate. Before asking all countries to stop using coal, consideration should be given to the energy shortfall in these countries to ensure their energy security,” he said. “We encourage developed countries to take the lead in stopping using coal while providing ample funding, technological and capacity-building support for developing countries’ energy transition. We need concrete actions more than slogans,” Zhao added. On Saturday, negotiators from nearly 200 countries accepted a new climate agreement after the COP26 summit in Glasgow concluded with the deal, which recognises India’s intervention for the world to “phase down” rather than “phase out” fossil fuels. Alok Sharma said he was “deeply frustrated” after India, backed by China and other coal-dependent developing nations, refused to completely end use of coal energy. (With inputs from agencies)

COP26: China defends move on joining India to ‘phase down’ instead of ‘phase out’ coal

India was criticised at COP26 for "watering down" a pledge to end the use of coal. Rich countries paint developing nations as climate villains. But they have denied billions of dollars in funding. Palki Sharma tells you about the climate hypocrisy of rich nations.

Gravitas: India criticised over coal at COP26, Climate injustice is the real villain

COP26 climate meet ended with a deal that talks about a 'phase down' of coal. &nbsp;Several parties are contending that India was among those who sought a change from 'phase out' to 'phase down' of the controversial fuel. But is the criticism really justified?

The outcome of COP26 in Glasgow is the first one focused on coal, and not the entire gamut of fossil fuels. Basically the overt attention to coal hid the dependence of much of the developed world on the major cause of emissions: oil and gas.

At the crunch talks, it was China which was more insistent on removing the 'coal phase out' terminology. India's contention was that a focus only on phasing out coal, and not oil and gas, would affect development of countries like itself that depend on coal for fuel.

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In fact, China's advocacy for 'phasing down' of coal came after it entered into a coal-related deal with US, just days ago.

The two countries had first used the term 'phase down' in their bilateral agreement adopted in the middle of COP26. The 'phase down' language has also been used in the joint statement released by both the countries earlier during the Glasgow talks.

Also, after the final COP26 text was adopted, US climate envoy John Kerry told a press conference. "You have to phase down coal before you can end coal.”&nbsp;

While it was US and China that had embraced the coinage 'coal phase down', &nbsp;India had different contention: that focus only on coal would disproportionately impact developing countries. It wanted all fossil fuels to be phased down. But such an equitable fossil fuel phaseout would have put the burden squarely on US and rich countries.

India called out this inequity, and was soon branded "obstructionists."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/late-change-over-coal-forces-cop26-president-alok-sharma-to-hold-back-tears-as-deal-gets-signed-429152">Late change over coal forces COP26 president Alok Sharma to hold back tears as deal gets signed</a>

The ground reality is that India is the only G20 country which is on track of achieving the goals fixed under Paris Agreement.

It has been India's insistence for years that reducing dependency on coal should take place in an equitable manner, taking into account role of developed nations that have already released huge amount of carbon because of their coal use in past decades, in fact most of the past two centuries.

Some rich countries have been using loopholes in global climate talks to retain the burden of action on developing nations.

As representatives of US, China, India and the European Union went in a huddle, language in the clause on 'phase out' of coal was amended to 'phase down'.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cop26-climate-deal-finalised-with-compromises-un-chief-warns-its-not-enough-429150">COP26 climate deal finalised with compromises, UN chief warns 'it's not enough'</a>

Reports say that during final minutes before COP26 joint statement was released, China played a crucial part in pushing for softer language. Hence, holding India solely responsible for 'watered down' language appears unfair.

Watch

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India on track to achieve Paris agreement goals

India has not only complied with own Paris Accord commitments but has also made strong efforts to protect least developed nations and the interests of G77 countries to secure climate finance. COP26 has agreed to work towards enhancing this.

It has been global experience that developed countries have been underperforming in the area of climate finance.

Climate change is indeed a global threat and all countries should be united to tackle it. However, equal participation and commitment from all bearing in mind historical precedents is need of the hour rather than joining forces to target any one country.

COP26 climate meet ended with a deal that talks about a 'phase down' of coal. Several parties are contending that India was among those who sought a change from 'phase out' to 'phase down' of the controversial fuel.

COP26 climate meet ended with a deal that talks about a 'phase down' of coal. Several parties are contending that India was among those who sought a change from 'phase out' to 'phase down' of the controversial fuel. But is the criticism really justified? The outcome of COP26 in Glasgow is the first one focused on coal, and not the entire gamut of fossil fuels. Basically the overt attention to coal hid the dependence of much of the developed world on the major cause of emissions: oil and gas. At the crunch talks, it was China which was more insistent on removing the 'coal phase out' terminology. India's contention was that a focus only on phasing out coal, and not oil and gas, would affect development of countries like itself that depend on coal for fuel. × In fact, China's advocacy for 'phasing down' of coal came after it entered into a coal-related deal with US, just days ago. The two countries had first used the term 'phase down' in their bilateral agreement adopted in the middle of COP26. The 'phase down' language has also been used in the joint statement released by both the countries earlier during the Glasgow talks. Also, after the final COP26 text was adopted, US climate envoy John Kerry told a press conference. "You have to phase down coal before you can end coal.” While it was US and China that had embraced the coinage 'coal phase down', India had different contention: that focus only on coal would disproportionately impact developing countries. It wanted all fossil fuels to be phased down. But such an equitable fossil fuel phaseout would have put the burden squarely on US and rich countries. India called out this inequity, and was soon branded "obstructionists." Also Read | Late change over coal forces COP26 president Alok Sharma to hold back tears as deal gets signed The ground reality is that India is the only G20 country which is on track of achieving the goals fixed under Paris Agreement. It has been India's insistence for years that reducing dependency on coal should take place in an equitable manner, taking into account role of developed nations that have already released huge amount of carbon because of their coal use in past decades, in fact most of the past two centuries. Some rich countries have been using loopholes in global climate talks to retain the burden of action on developing nations. As representatives of US, China, India and the European Union went in a huddle, language in the clause on 'phase out' of coal was amended to 'phase down'. Also Read | COP26 climate deal finalised with compromises, UN chief warns 'it's not enough' Reports say that during final minutes before COP26 joint statement was released, China played a crucial part in pushing for softer language. Hence, holding India solely responsible for 'watered down' language appears unfair. Watch India on track to achieve Paris agreement goals India has not only complied with own Paris Accord commitments but has also made strong efforts to protect least developed nations and the interests of G77 countries to secure climate finance. COP26 has agreed to work towards enhancing this. It has been global experience that developed countries have been underperforming in the area of climate finance. Climate change is indeed a global threat and all countries should be united to tackle it. However, equal participation and commitment from all bearing in mind historical precedents is need of the hour rather than joining forces to target any one country.

COP26: US, China promoted 'coal phase down' concept. Then why is India getting disproportionate blame for it?

Coal is one of the biggest challenges in tackling the climate crisis, it is among the top three contributors of greenhouse gases, and the idea of the coal phase-out sounds like a much-needed proposition.

COP26 climate summit | Can coal by phased-out completely?

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has downplayed the phasing down of coal row, which had become a bone of contention at the COP26. India with 17% of the world's population, only accounts mere 5% of the global emissions, the lowest in per capita emissions terms.

India accounts for only 5% of global emissions

COP26 climate summit’s president Alok Sharma asked India and China to “explain themselves to poor nations” after they watered down the clause on ending the usage of coal.

Sharma said he was “deeply frustrated” after India, backed by China and other coal-dependent developing nations, rejected a clause calling for a “phase out” of coal-fired power, and changed the text to “phase down”.

Sharma’s comments came after UN climate talks in Glasgow, Scotland, ended on Saturday with a deal that targeted fossil fuels for the first time.

“In terms of China and India, they will on this particular issue have to explain themselves,” Sharma told a news conference at Downing Street in London.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/late-change-over-coal-forces-cop26-president-alok-sharma-to-hold-back-tears-as-deal-gets-signed-429152">Late change over coal forces COP26 president Alok Sharma to hold back tears as deal gets signed</a>

In an interview to the Guardian, Sharma later said that he had no choice but to accept the compromise, because “it was my view that otherwise we might end up with no deal at all. We would have lost two years of really hard work, and would have ended up with nothing to show for it for developing countries.”

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who was also present with Sharma at a news conference at Downing Street, said, “Whether the language was ‘phase down’ or ‘phase out’ doesn't seem to me as a speaker of English to make that much difference.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cop26-us-china-promoted-coal-phase-down-concept-then-why-is-india-getting-disproportionate-blame-for-it-429295">COP26: US, China promoted 'coal phase down' concept. Then why is India getting disproportionate blame for it?</a>

“The direction of travel is pretty much the same,” he added.

Johnson said COP26 had delivered a mandate to cut the use of coal-powered generation that was backed up by real action from individual counties.

"When you add all that together, it is beyond question that Glasgow has sounded the death knell for coal power," he said at the press conference.

But he said his delight at the progress achieved was tinged by disappointment that the deal did not go further.

"Sadly, that's the nature of diplomacy," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

COP26 climate summit’s president Alok Sharma asked India and China to “explain themselves to poor nations” after they watered down the clause on ending the usage of coal.

COP26 climate summit’s president Alok Sharma asked India and China to “explain themselves to poor nations” after they watered down the clause on ending the usage of coal. Sharma said he was “deeply frustrated” after India, backed by China and other coal-dependent developing nations, rejected a clause calling for a “phase out” of coal-fired power, and changed the text to “phase down”. Sharma’s comments came after UN climate talks in Glasgow, Scotland, ended on Saturday with a deal that targeted fossil fuels for the first time. “In terms of China and India, they will on this particular issue have to explain themselves,” Sharma told a news conference at Downing Street in London. Also read | Late change over coal forces COP26 president Alok Sharma to hold back tears as deal gets signed In an interview to the Guardian, Sharma later said that he had no choice but to accept the compromise, because “it was my view that otherwise we might end up with no deal at all. We would have lost two years of really hard work, and would have ended up with nothing to show for it for developing countries.” British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who was also present with Sharma at a news conference at Downing Street, said, “Whether the language was ‘phase down’ or ‘phase out’ doesn't seem to me as a speaker of English to make that much difference.” Also read | COP26: US, China promoted 'coal phase down' concept. Then why is India getting disproportionate blame for it? “The direction of travel is pretty much the same,” he added. Johnson said COP26 had delivered a mandate to cut the use of coal-powered generation that was backed up by real action from individual counties. "When you add all that together, it is beyond question that Glasgow has sounded the death knell for coal power," he said at the press conference. But he said his delight at the progress achieved was tinged by disappointment that the deal did not go further. "Sadly, that's the nature of diplomacy," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

COP26 president criticises India, China over coal use move

After two years of planning and 14 days of negotiations, the Glasgow climate pact was adopted on Saturday. The pact is a recognition of the need to transition away from fossil fuels. Here are the COP26 negotiations and climate politics that followed while the focus was giving up coal.

Climate summit | 'Phase out' to 'Phase down' coal, COP26 president expects India, China to explain

On one hand, Australia has vowed carbon neutrality by 2050, the Scott Morrison government has announced plans encouraging people to buy electric cars. On the other hand, an Australian minister said that Australia expects to keep selling coal.

Australia's hypocritical climate stance, skips the phase-out coal meet

Several major coal-using nations have pledged for the first time to phase out their use of the heavily-polluting fossil fuel, while others announced commitments to end investment in new coal-fired power plants.

COP26 Climate Summit: Several countries set coal phase out deadline

More than 40 countries have agreed to ''consigning coal to history'' and phase out the world's dirtiest fossil fuel.

The agreement in the COP26 summit will help to keep the United Nation's goal to limit global heating to 1.5C above pre-industrial levels alive.

''Today marks a milestone moment in our global efforts to tackle climate change, as nations from all corners of the world unite in Glasgow to declare that coal has no part to play in our future power generation,'' said the UK's business secretary Kwasi Kwarteng.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-surprises-the-climate-summit-by-announcing-indias-goal-of-reaching-net-zero-emissions-by-2070-425933">Also read |&nbsp;PM Modi surprises the climate summit by announcing India's goal of reaching net-zero emissions by 2070</a>

''Today’s ambitious commitments made by our international partners demonstrate that the end of coal is in sight.''

Major coal-using countries such as Canada, Poland, Vietnam, and Chile said they would stop building new plants.

However, the world's biggest coal-consuming countries such as China and the United States are not part of the deal.

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Meanwhile, the Powering Past Coal Alliance has also secured 28 new members. It is an international campaign aimed at phasing out the fuel.

The US and Britain have announced a partnership worth $8.5 billion with South Africa at the COP26 conference, to help the country phase out coal faster.

Phasing out of coal is seen as vital to achieve climate targets as it is the most polluting fossil fuel.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-lambasts-us-for-backpedalling-on-climate-policies-after-biden-chided-jinping-426346" hreflang="en">China lambasts US for 'backpedalling' on climate policies after Biden chided Jinping</a>

Greenhouse emissions from the burning of coal are the largest contributor to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/climate-change">climate change</a>.

It is widely used because it is cheap and abundant in local supply. Wealthy countries have invested heavily to shift their industries and energy sectors onto cleaner sources.

In 2019, 37 per cent of the world's electricity was produced by coal. Although the global pipeline for new coal power projects has shrivelled in recent years.

(With inputs from agencies)

More than 40 countries have agreed to ''consigning coal to history'' and phase out the world's dirtiest fossil fuel. The agreement in the COP26 summit will help to keep the United Nation's goal to limit global heating to 1.

More than 40 countries have agreed to ''consigning coal to history'' and phase out the world's dirtiest fossil fuel. The agreement in the COP26 summit will help to keep the United Nation's goal to limit global heating to 1.5C above pre-industrial levels alive. ''Today marks a milestone moment in our global efforts to tackle climate change, as nations from all corners of the world unite in Glasgow to declare that coal has no part to play in our future power generation,'' said the UK's business secretary Kwasi Kwarteng. Also read | PM Modi surprises the climate summit by announcing India's goal of reaching net-zero emissions by 2070 ''Today’s ambitious commitments made by our international partners demonstrate that the end of coal is in sight.'' Major coal-using countries such as Canada, Poland, Vietnam, and Chile said they would stop building new plants. However, the world's biggest coal-consuming countries such as China and the United States are not part of the deal. Meanwhile, the Powering Past Coal Alliance has also secured 28 new members. It is an international campaign aimed at phasing out the fuel. The US and Britain have announced a partnership worth $8.5 billion with South Africa at the COP26 conference, to help the country phase out coal faster. Phasing out of coal is seen as vital to achieve climate targets as it is the most polluting fossil fuel. Also read | China lambasts US for 'backpedalling' on climate policies after Biden chided Jinping Greenhouse emissions from the burning of coal are the largest contributor to climate change. It is widely used because it is cheap and abundant in local supply. Wealthy countries have invested heavily to shift their industries and energy sectors onto cleaner sources. In 2019, 37 per cent of the world's electricity was produced by coal. Although the global pipeline for new coal power projects has shrivelled in recent years. (With inputs from agencies)

'Consigning coal to history': Over 40 countries agree to phase out dirtiest fossil fuel

Elieser Rodriguez emerges blackened from the thick smoke of burning pyres slowly transforming the limbs of mangroves into charcoal -- a livelihood much maligned by environmental and climate campaigners in Panama.&nbsp;

He says he has no other choice for a living.&nbsp;

"This is the daily survival of my family, of my children, of my wife," Rodriguez told AFP in El Espave, a town about 80 kilometers (50 miles) southwest of Panama City with a mangrove forest as its backyard.

"I am 30 years old and have been working at this from 16, 15. It does not bring me wealth... this is a means of survival."

About 200 families in El Espave, on the banks of the Bahia de Chame, a large bay, work in the production of mangrove charcoal, which they sell to pizzerias and restaurants.

Panama, according to its environment ministry, boasts more than 437,000 acres (177,000 hectares) of mangrove, of which 35 percent, including around Chame bay, is protected.

Harvesting the mangroves is prohibited, but for the residents of El Espave, making coal from the tree is an ancient tradition, a way of life, and their only source of income.

Rodriguez's grandfather and great-grandfather did the same work in the days before the electric saws and boat engines used today.

"If they close this place, what are we going to do? How are we going to live? How are we going to eat?" asked Dario Hidalgo, 42, whose job is to build the coal-making "ovens."

"And the children who are growing up, what will become of them? What will they do? I think that if there is nothing they will turn to crime, to easy money," he told AFP.

Carbon sinks

The community and the government are keen to find a solution to this age-old conflict between conservation and survival.

According to the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), mangroves protect coastlines from erosion and extreme weather events, improve water quality by filtering, and serve as nurseries for many marine creatures.

They also help fight climate change -- sequestering as much as 22.8 million tons of carbon each year in their leaves, trunks, roots and the soil.

They can contain more carbon per square meter than tropical rainforests, according to UNEP.&nbsp;

Panama's mangroves, according to the environment ministry, hold some 52 million tons.

But if degraded or lost, mangroves become sources of carbon dioxide and contribute to global warming -- which threatens their survival in turn, particularly through sea level rise.

At El Espave, the sea enters the bay gently, forming narrow passageways to the coast.&nbsp;

Via these water routes, Rodriguez and his colleagues go out by boat every morning, travelling some 15 minutes to areas where the mangrove trunks grow thick. They fell them with machetes and electric saws.

One of the men, Israel Gonzalez, 46, says the thinner plants are not touched, to preserve the ecosystem.

"When we cut here, we always leave two, three or four trees for the seed to fall and continue to reproduce," he explained.

The community was also working on building a mangrove nursery, he said, to plant new seedlings and expand the forest they depend on so much.&nbsp;

According to UNEP, over a quarter of the world's original mangrove cover has already disappeared.

Environment ministry official Jose Julio Casas said authorities were examining ways to work with the community "so that they can use the resource in a responsible way."

Coal or jobs

Currently engaged in an activity that is technically illegal, they "have to comply with a series of requirements because if they are going to use it, they themselves must help in the process of protecting and conserving the ecosystem," Casas told AFP.

At El Espave, charcoal production happens near the port, in an area dotted with pyramid-shaped pyres smoldering like small volcanos.

"First you make the oven, then you stack the (mangrove) wood, then grass (to cover the wood), and then you put the sand" on top, Lesbia Batista 48, explained.

Each "oven" smolders for about four days before being doused with water. Once cooled down, the soil is removed to reveal the coal underneath.

Each pyre yields about 120 bags of coal that can collectively be sold for about $500 -- an estimated $150 profit per "oven."

Besides its contribution to health-threatening air-pollution, coal burning is also one of the major sources of planet-warming greenhouse gases in Earth's atmosphere.

"We are waiting for them (the government) to tell us how we can continue to produce charcoal, or that they bring us job proposals," Batista.

"We do not want to stop working, nor that they take this away from us."

Elieser Rodriguez emerges blackened from the thick smoke of burning pyres slowly transforming the limbs of mangroves into charcoal -- a livelihood much maligned by environmental and climate campaigners in Panama.

Elieser Rodriguez emerges blackened from the thick smoke of burning pyres slowly transforming the limbs of mangroves into charcoal -- a livelihood much maligned by environmental and climate campaigners in Panama. He says he has no other choice for a living. "This is the daily survival of my family, of my children, of my wife," Rodriguez told AFP in El Espave, a town about 80 kilometers (50 miles) southwest of Panama City with a mangrove forest as its backyard. "I am 30 years old and have been working at this from 16, 15. It does not bring me wealth... this is a means of survival." About 200 families in El Espave, on the banks of the Bahia de Chame, a large bay, work in the production of mangrove charcoal, which they sell to pizzerias and restaurants. Panama, according to its environment ministry, boasts more than 437,000 acres (177,000 hectares) of mangrove, of which 35 percent, including around Chame bay, is protected. Harvesting the mangroves is prohibited, but for the residents of El Espave, making coal from the tree is an ancient tradition, a way of life, and their only source of income. Rodriguez's grandfather and great-grandfather did the same work in the days before the electric saws and boat engines used today. "If they close this place, what are we going to do? How are we going to live? How are we going to eat?" asked Dario Hidalgo, 42, whose job is to build the coal-making "ovens." "And the children who are growing up, what will become of them? What will they do? I think that if there is nothing they will turn to crime, to easy money," he told AFP. Carbon sinks The community and the government are keen to find a solution to this age-old conflict between conservation and survival. According to the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), mangroves protect coastlines from erosion and extreme weather events, improve water quality by filtering, and serve as nurseries for many marine creatures. They also help fight climate change -- sequestering as much as 22.8 million tons of carbon each year in their leaves, trunks, roots and the soil. They can contain more carbon per square meter than tropical rainforests, according to UNEP. Panama's mangroves, according to the environment ministry, hold some 52 million tons. But if degraded or lost, mangroves become sources of carbon dioxide and contribute to global warming -- which threatens their survival in turn, particularly through sea level rise. At El Espave, the sea enters the bay gently, forming narrow passageways to the coast. Via these water routes, Rodriguez and his colleagues go out by boat every morning, travelling some 15 minutes to areas where the mangrove trunks grow thick. They fell them with machetes and electric saws. One of the men, Israel Gonzalez, 46, says the thinner plants are not touched, to preserve the ecosystem. "When we cut here, we always leave two, three or four trees for the seed to fall and continue to reproduce," he explained. The community was also working on building a mangrove nursery, he said, to plant new seedlings and expand the forest they depend on so much. According to UNEP, over a quarter of the world's original mangrove cover has already disappeared. Environment ministry official Jose Julio Casas said authorities were examining ways to work with the community "so that they can use the resource in a responsible way." Coal or jobs Currently engaged in an activity that is technically illegal, they "have to comply with a series of requirements because if they are going to use it, they themselves must help in the process of protecting and conserving the ecosystem," Casas told AFP. At El Espave, charcoal production happens near the port, in an area dotted with pyramid-shaped pyres smoldering like small volcanos. "First you make the oven, then you stack the (mangrove) wood, then grass (to cover the wood), and then you put the sand" on top, Lesbia Batista 48, explained. Each "oven" smolders for about four days before being doused with water. Once cooled down, the soil is removed to reveal the coal underneath. Each pyre yields about 120 bags of coal that can collectively be sold for about $500 -- an estimated $150 profit per "oven." Besides its contribution to health-threatening air-pollution, coal burning is also one of the major sources of planet-warming greenhouse gases in Earth's atmosphere. "We are waiting for them (the government) to tell us how we can continue to produce charcoal, or that they bring us job proposals," Batista. "We do not want to stop working, nor that they take this away from us."

Planet vs people as Panama's mangroves are turned into coal

The Chinese government has ordered the country's coal mines to "produce as much coal as possible" in a bid to mitigate the power crisis that has left millions of homes across the nation without electricity.

China orders coal mines to 'produce as much as possible'

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