Before the industrial revolution, mankind made use of natural energy resources that did not burn: animal and human power, fire, wind and water. This changed in
the 18th century with the advent of the industrial revolution. The industrial revolution marked a shift from reliance on natural energy resources to the utilization of fossil fuels, particularly coal and later oil.
Fossil fuels offered a new and abundant source of energy that could be harnessed for various industrial processes. Coal replaced firewood as the primary fuel for heating and steam engines, which revolutionized transportation and manufacturing. This shift brought about significant advancements in technology, allowing for increased production and efficiency.
The reliance on fossil fuels also brought about significant changes in society, as it led to urbanization and the growth of industrial cities. The availability of cheap and abundant energy spurred the growth of factories, which in turn led to increased productivity and economic growth.
However, the use of fossil fuels also had negative consequences. The burning of coal and oil releases carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change and air pollution. Additionally, the extraction and transportation of fossil fuels led to environmental degradation and the displacement of communities.
In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and hydro power, as well as advancements in energy efficiency technologies. These developments aim to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and mitigate their environmental impact.