Hambach lignite surface mine
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Hambach lignite surface mine

by Alexis Merlaud, Belgian Institute for Space Aeronomy, Brussels, Belgium

Coal-burning is the largest source of electricity (38%). It is also the most lethal source of energy (due to mining, and air quality effects) and it leads to the highest CO2 emissions. According to IPCC it is 'vital' to remain under 1.5°C of additional warming, and this implies to phase out coal burning by 2050. (Picture taken during the QA4EO-Ruhr campaign, thanks to Kezia Lange)