What are fossil fuels?

Fossil fuels — coal, oil and natural gas — have fueled our modern world. These ancient organic compounds, formed from plants and animals millions of years ago, contain carbon and hydrogen. Through geological processes, they transformed into the forms we know today. Coal originated as plants and trees, while microscopic marine organisms like plankton and algae became oil.

Further heat and pressure converted them into gas. Today, these fuels are scattered across the globe, with major reserves held by countries such as the United States, Saudi Arabia and Russia. Coal is mined, while oil and gas are extracted through drilling. The Industrial Revolution in the early 19th century marked the beginning of our significant reliance on these fuels.

By 1950, our use had increased eightfold. They power our homes, businesses, and modes of transportation. Oil is refined into diesel, gasoline, and kerosene, while natural gas is compressed for use in vehicles. Coal-derived coke forms steel, and crude oil and gas are processed into plastic. However, fossil fuels are also the primary drivers of climate change.

When burned, they release carbon dioxide, trapping heat and raising global temperatures. This has led to melting polar ice caps and more intense weather events, causing severe impacts globally. The Paris Agreement in 2015 aimed to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius to prevent the worst effects of climate change. However, progress has been slow, and emissions continue to rise.

In a significant step, COP28 in Dubai agreed to transition away from fossil fuels. Despite this, Brazil has presented a roadmap to implement this commitment nationally. Experts urge urgent action to limit global warming and avoid catastrophic climate impacts.