Short Wave A Rising Demand for Coal Amidst War in Ukraine
Aug 18, 2022
Nate Rott, NPR's climate correspondent, delves into the complexities surrounding Ukraine's coal industry amid the ongoing war. He discusses the perilous conditions faced by coal miners in eastern Ukraine and the critical importance of coal as Europe confronts an energy crisis. The conversation highlights the urgent energy needs as winter approaches, the modernization of coal mines, and the emotional turmoil of miners navigating uncertainty about their futures as conflict reshapes their livelihoods.
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Coal Mine Visit
- Nate Rott visited a coal mine in eastern Ukraine, a region with significant conflict.
- Miners there joked about the mine offering safety from constant air raid sirens.
Ukraine's Energy Crisis
- Russia's invasion of Ukraine has worsened the global energy crisis, acutely affecting Ukraine.
- Ukrainian officials fear insufficient energy for heating homes during the coming winter.
Winter Concerns & Energy Infrastructure
- President Zelensky urged eastern Ukrainians to evacuate due to anticipated winter electricity shortages.
- Ukraine's energy infrastructure and most of its fossil fuels are located in the conflict-ridden east.