Coal Consumption
Data, Graphs, and Maps
Grades6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12Science, Geography, Mathematics
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Provided by Our World in Data
What it is
- This resource includes an interactive map and graphs that show the quantity of coal consumed (measured in Terawatt-hours) in countries around the world since 1900.
- It includes commercial solid fuels only: bituminous coal, anthracite (hard coal), lignite, brown (sub-bituminous) coal, and other commercial solid fuels.
- The data excludes coal converted to liquid or gaseous fuels but includes coal consumed in transformation processes.
Teaching tips
Positives
- The interactive provides three different ways for students to explore data (chart, map, table). Students may choose to view datasets for various geographic locations and time periods.
- Related research and data are linked.
- The site explains how the data was collected.
Prerequisites
- Learners need to be familiar with different sources of energy.
- Educator would need time to get familiar with this interactive media and decide on how to implement it with the learners.
Differentiation & Implementation
- There are other related interactive maps for other sources of energy.
- Can be used to create awareness about one or more of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Middle school teachers can use this resource in combination with the Combating Coal Ash Lesson.
From the scientist review
Data from China showed a steady rise in coal consumption for energy. This is as a result of intense coal mining activities. No threshold is set, but there is marked increase from 2002-2007 and 2010-2013. Students can explore China and other countries they select to understand these changes. This resource is suitable for teaching.
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