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Alternatives Quote by Thomas Friedman

“The great thing about cheap natural gas, again it's cheap, and it provides a cleaner alternative to coal. But it's still a fossil fuel, and because it's still a fossil fuel, it still emits carbon.” quote by Thomas Friedman
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“The great thing about cheap natural gas, again it's cheap, and it provides a cleaner alternative to coal. But it's still a fossil fuel, and because it's still a fossil fuel, it still emits carbon.”

Thomas Friedman

About This Quote

Source Interview: The New York Times, Thomas Friedman, 2022

The speaker praises cheap natural gas for its affordability and cleaner profile compared to coal, yet acknowledges it remains a carbon‑emitting fossil fuel.

In simple terms: Cheap gas is cheaper and cleaner than coal but still pollutes.

Key Takeaway

Balance energy needs with climate responsibility.

Themes

energy environment economics policy

Mood

pragmatic concerned

Type

policy environmental

When to use this quote

  • government policy
  • industrial planning
  • household energy choices
  • investment decisions

Key Concepts

fossil fuels carbon emissions energy transition

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can we rely on gas as a bridge?
  • What policies can accelerate clean energy?
A Different Perspective

Renewables may be needed sooner; cheap gas could delay climate action.

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