Fossil Fuel Argument Essay

OVERVIEW Coal, gas, and natural gas are the fossil fuels which are currently the world’s primary-energy source. Fossil fuels are made millions of years ago from organic materials such as plants and animals. Fossil fuels are finite resources and can cause irreparable damage to the environment. Fossil fuels are considered to be responsible for global warming. There are many activist and campaigns launched calling for divestment from fossil fuels, especially from large companies and universities. Divesting from fossil fuels is a logical and most sustainable way to save the environment, but it is unrealistic for University of New York to end its’ current investments with the companies which provide the University energy to keep the school …show more content…
The University’s core responsibility is to provide a teaching environment for its’ students and the use of electricity from coal is detrimental to the learning environment through the use of modern technology. Freeman reports, “Fossil fuel energy has been the main driver of human flourishing historically and that it is uniquely capable of continuing to support human flourishing in perpetuity, making it the morally preferable global energy choice for the future.” (Freeman, 2015, p. 1) Divesting from fossil fuels will decrease pollutants, environmental damage, and global warming, but renewable energy will not supplement or compete again fossil fuel energy. The community and the University is highly reliant on fossil fuels. According to Freeman, “Developed countries rely on fossil fuels for transportation, and in the production of food, clothing, and many other goods and services. Countries like China, India, Brazil, and South Africa have fueled their rise overwhelmingly with fossil energy, and the ensuing economic growth has lifted millions of people out of poverty.” (Freeman, 2015, p.