What are the environmental benefits of natural gas?

Natural gas offers several environmental benefits when compared to other fossil fuels, making it an appealing energy source in the transition toward cleaner energy. One of the main advantages is its lower carbon dioxide emissions during combustion. When burned, natural gas emits approximately half the carbon dioxide of coal and about thirty percent less than oil. This reduction in greenhouse gas emissions can contribute significantly to efforts aimed at combating climate change. Additionally, natural gas produces fewer harmful pollutants such as sulfur dioxide and particulate matter, which helps improve air quality. This is particularly important in urban areas where air pollution can pose health risks to residents. Furthermore, the use of natural gas can facilitate the integration of renewable energy sources. For instance, natural gas plants can provide reliable backup power when solar or wind resources are not available, thus supporting a more diverse energy mix. While it is essential to recognize that natural gas is still a fossil fuel and has environmental impacts, its advantages over coal and oil make it a key component in many strategies aimed at reducing overall carbon emissions. For more detailed information on natural gas and related environmental considerations, one might explore resources available on the Alagasco website.