Environmental impact of the energy industry to virtually all aspects of present society, especially for transportation and heating for both homes and for commercial activities. Natural gas is often described as the cleanest fossil fuel, producing less carbon dioxide per joule delivered than either coal or oil., and far fewer pollutants than other fossil fuels. However, in absolute terms it does contribute substantially to global carbon emissions, and this contribution is projected to grow. According to the IPCC Fourth Assessment Report, in 2004 natural gas produced about 5,300 Mt/yr of CO emissions, while coal and oil produced 10,600 and 10,200 respectively (Figure 4.4); but by 2030,
Coal gasification commercialization resulting from the gasification of feed coal is shifted, and a Rectisol process is utilized for sulfur removal and CO removal. Recovered CO is sold for use in making carbonated beverages. "Lignite gasification to produce synthetic natural gas or ammonia" The Great Plains Synfuels Plant (GPSP) in Beulah, North Dakota has been in operation since 1984 producing synthetic natural gas (SNG) from lignite coal, and remains the only coal-to-SNG facility in the United States. GSPS is operated by the Dakota Gasification Company. In addition to the production of SNG, the plant also produces high purity carbon dioxide, which is distributed