Step-by-step explanation:
Energy production: Coal is one of the primary sources of energy production in the world, particularly in developing countries. It is a cheap and reliable fuel source for electricity generation, heating, and industrial processes. As a result, many countries with rapidly growing economies continue to rely heavily on coal-fired power plants to meet their energy needs.
Industrial uses: Minerals are essential components in many industrial products, such as steel, cement, and fertilizers. Many countries depend heavily on the mining and extraction of minerals to support their economies. These minerals are used in construction, transportation, and manufacturing industries, among others, and demand for these products has increased in recent years due to population growth and urbanization.
Lack of alternatives: While renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power are becoming increasingly popular, they still account for a relatively small percentage of global energy production. Many countries still lack the infrastructure necessary to support the widespread adoption of these technologies. Additionally, the extraction and processing of minerals used in renewable energy technologies can also be energy-intensive and can contribute to environmental degradation. As a result, coal and mineral use remains a dominant force in many parts of the world.