Coal rises from ashes

Worldwide attempts to reduce carbon emissions have been undermined by the resurgence of coal-fired power plants in China and India.

Coal now makes up 30 percent of the global energy market, its highest share in more than 40 years, according to UK newspaper The Guardian. The BP Statistical Review of World Energy found industrialization of emerging countries like China and India coupled with low coal prices has driven demand, making coal the fastest-growing fossil fuel. Consumption of coal in China rose by more than 9 percent in 2011, contributing to a 3 percent increase in global carbon emissions from energy production in the same time frame.

Oil remains the world’s top fuel source, supplying 33 percent of worldwide energy consumption. The review estimated the planet’s oil reserves would supply current demand for 54 years.