Fossil Fuels: A History

By David Schmidt

This comprehensive history delves into the story of fossil fuels, exploring their profound impact on the trajectory of civilization. From their formation millions of years ago during the Carboniferous Period, the narrative traces the journey of coal, oil, and natural gas through human history. It examines early discoveries and utilization, highlighting the transition from rudimentary uses to widespread adoption that fueled the Industrial Revolution. The book also analyzes the evolution of extraction and refining techniques, the development of crucial infrastructure like pipelines, and the rise of the internal combustion engine, illuminating the technological innovations that shaped the fossil fuel era. Moreover, it delves into the geopolitical consequences of fossil fuel dependence, exploring the intricate interplay of power, conflict, and resource control that has defined international relations for centuries.

The narrative doesn't shy away from the environmental consequences of fossil fuel consumption. It examines the rise of environmental awareness, the increasing recognition of climate change as a global threat, and the growing momentum behind the search for alternative energy solutions. The book discusses the rise of environmentalism, detailing its challenge to the status quo and the push for sustainable practices. It also explores technological advancements aimed at improving efficiency and mitigating environmental impact, from enhanced oil recovery to the development of carbon capture and storage. The complex interplay between electrification, powered by fossil fuels, and the development of the grid is also discussed, highlighting the challenges and opportunities of a changing energy landscape.

Finally, the book considers the future of fossil fuels in the context of a global energy transition. It analyzes the rise of renewable energy sources and the complex factors driving the shift towards a lower-carbon future. The challenges and opportunities inherent in this transition, including the development of new technologies, policy choices, market forces, and social and political pressures, are explored in detail. The book provides a thorough and insightful examination of a subject crucial for understanding our past, navigating our present, and shaping a sustainable energy future.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: B0DXLB6WQD
• ISBN13: 9798311181525
• Release Date: February 2025
• Publisher: Independently Published
• Length: 180 Pages
• Weight: 0.55 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 6.0" x 9.0"