Important tasks related to ensuring a prosperous and secure future for all peoples of the Earth are reflected in scientific and technological reforms being implemented not only in our country but throughout the world. The level of environmental pollution from harmful emissions depends on the type of fuel burned. For example, if we look at scientific data from the 1990s, they show that the level of air pollution from coal combustion reached 80 percent, from fuel oil combustion – 60 percent, and from natural gas combustion – 20 percent. Clearly, these figures have significantly decreased thanks to the development of modern technologies. 

Efforts to protect the environment around the world are enabling the use of cleaner and more sustainable energy sources. Advanced technologies are helping to reduce the cost of generating electricity from solar and wind power. According to a report by the consulting company Global Energy Monitor, over the past five years, a total of 312 coal mines have been closed worldwide due to resource depletion. The total area of ​​the territories, where coal has been mined for many years, is 2,089 square kilometers, roughly the size of Luxembourg. On these territories, solar power plants with a capacity of 103 gigawatts could be built. 

According to the aforementioned company, by the end of 2030, the number of coal mines, depleting their resources, will have increased, reaching an area of ​​3,731 square kilometers. It is estimated that modern power plants with a capacity of 185 gigawatts could be built on these coal mines. This figure would be equivalent to the daily energy consumption of Germany.

The People’s Republic of China has begun implementing a number of similar projects. China is considered the country that burned the most coal in the 20th century and is a leader in the implementation of various coal-to-gas technologies. This century, China will continue to be a leader in the purchase and export of natural gas and crude oil. These planned measures are essential for ensuring a brighter and cleaner life for future generations and for modernizing the country.

Saparmurad ARTYKOV,
a senior research worker at the Nebitgazylmytaslama Institute of the Türkmennebit State Concern