As an energy sector expert with a focus on sustainable development and environmental impact, I am well-versed in the intricacies of various fuels and their combustion processes. The term "clean burning fuel" refers to a type of fuel that, when burned, emits fewer pollutants and greenhouse gases compared to conventional fossil fuels. This is crucial in the context of climate change and the global push towards a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.

Natural Gas stands out as one of the cleanest-burning fossil fuels currently in use. It is primarily composed of methane and, when combusted, it produces carbon dioxide and water vapor. The advantage of natural gas over other fossil fuels like coal and oil is its higher hydrogen-to-carbon ratio, which results in a more efficient combustion process and significantly lower emissions of carbon per kilowatt hour. According to the information provided, natural gas generates at least 50 percent less carbon than coal, which is a substantial reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

Additionally, the combustion of natural gas **produces almost zero sulfur oxides, mercury, and particulate ash**. These are harmful pollutants that can cause respiratory problems, contribute to acid rain, and have other detrimental effects on the environment and human health. The absence or near absence of these pollutants in the emissions from natural gas combustion is a significant advantage.

However, it is important to note that while natural gas is cleaner than coal and oil, it is still a fossil fuel and its combustion does release carbon dioxide, a potent greenhouse gas. The focus in the energy sector has been shifting towards renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, which produce energy without any direct greenhouse gas emissions.

Biofuels are another category of clean burning fuels. These are derived from organic matter such as plants or waste and can be used in place of fossil fuels. Biofuels like ethanol and biodiesel are considered cleaner because they are part of a carbon cycle; the plants absorb carbon dioxide as they grow, and when the biofuel is burned, the carbon dioxide is released back into the atmosphere, creating a more balanced carbon footprint.

Hydrogen is also emerging as a clean burning fuel, especially when produced from renewable energy sources. When hydrogen is combusted, the only byproduct is water, making it a zero-emission fuel. However, the production, storage, and transportation of hydrogen present their own set of challenges that are currently being addressed through technological advancements.

In conclusion, while natural gas is one of the cleanest-burning fossil fuels available today, the future of clean energy lies in the development and widespread adoption of renewable energy sources and advanced technologies that can further reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

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Gas is far and away the cleanest-burning fossil fuel, generating at least 50 percent less carbon per kilowatt hour than coal, and almost zero sulfur oxides, mercury and particulate ash.Nov 6, 2009read more >>