Towards cleaner coal at Rio Tinto Energy
The supply of affordable and reliable energy is essential for economic development and is a significant contributor to the alleviation of poverty, improved health, and better quality of life. The current energy mix, typically based on lowest economic costs, does not meet the environmental standards society demands. However, it is widely accepted that the short term substitution of existing fuels with "clean" or "renewable" energy sources will not yet meet societal needs for abundant, affordable and reliable energy.
Rio Tinto's CO2 emissions are primarily from the combustion of the coal we sell. Accordingly, our strategy to a near zero emissions future needs to focus on influencing the way coal is used, as well as reducing direct emissions at our operations. Rio Tinto Energy's product stewardship strategy has three major components:
- Undertaking and encouraging research and development projects to reduce emissions from the use of our coal products.
- Working constructively around the world with governments which are developing energy policies, including measures to reduce greenhouse emissions consistent with their national expectations or international obligations; and
- Working with our customers and suppliers to provide safe and secure energy products and assist our customers to use our products with minimal impact on the environment, including all emissions and waste products.
Specific projects show constructive support for product stewardship obligations, and society's broader need for clean, affordable and reliable energy.
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