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Traditional Energy Sources. Peat Harvesting . Peat is partially decomposed plant matter (mostly sphagnum moss) present in coastal regions of NC in swampy areas called pocosins . Peat will eventually become coal after millions and millions of years.
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Peat Harvesting • Peat is partially decomposed plant matter (mostly sphagnum moss) present in coastal regions of NC in swampy areas called pocosins. • Peat will eventually become coal after millions and millions of years. • Like wood, peat can be burned as a heat source. • Peat does not form fast enough to be a renewable resource.
Harvesting Trees • Due to our climate and large land area NC and much of the US has the potential to use forests as an economic resource • When managed correctly, forests can be a renewable resource.
Deforestation – Part of OUR history • When managed incorrectly, deforestation can result in environmental catastrophe! • In the early 1900’s our mountains were largely deforested. • This resulted in huge fires and massive mud slides. • Even after 75 years, our mountain forests are still recovering.
According to the World Wildlife Federation, 17% of the Amazon rainforest has been lost in the past 50 years, primarily due to clearing land for cattle farming.