Discussion:
Discuss the concept of peak oil and detailed the pros and cons of numerous fossil fuel production methods. In the face of rising gas prices, one alternative to oil is coal. However, this fossil fuel comes with its own set of costs and benefits. In your initial post, discuss in detail the costs and benefits of coal use over oil use for electricity production in the United States. Additionally, discuss which method of coal extraction (strip mining, mountaintop removal, or underground mining) you believe offers the best strategy for coal production and why you feel this way.
Response should be at least 250 words in length. Support your claims with at least two scholarly sources in addition to your text. Properly cite any references
Reference: Botkin, Daniel B. Environmental Science: Earth as a Living Planet, 9th Edition. Wiley, 2013-12-23.