Coal

Children's Literature - Jean Boreen

This text is part of a series that takes a broad-based look at some of the most important world commodities. After defining what a world commodity is, each text then goes into a more focused consideration on its particular commodity. This text, with its focus on coal, provides an easy to read yet detailed explanation of the history of the use of coal in the world (including how it is found and where it is used) and the various ways it is mined (strip, mountaintop and counter, room and pillar, and longwall). Another important section focuses upon generating electricity and making steel from coal; this is followed by three sections elaborating on the coal trade itself and how supply and demand for coal and the products created from it impact global markets. We also find out about the World Coal Institute and how that constituency impacts the regulation of coal use in the U.S. and the world. Final sections focus on environmental and social issues arising from the use of and or mining of coal: greenhouse gases, clean coal technologies and water and landform contamination are considered alongside a short discussion of safety issues, trade unions, and mine strikes. Excellent photos and graphics throughout further explain everything from carbon sequestration to top exporters and importers of coal. This is a solid addition to a series that supports strong research materials and ideas for further study. Part of the "World Commodities" series. Reviewer: Jean Boreen, Ph.D.