The world produced over 6.7 billion tons of coal in 2008. Coal is one of the world's most important resources of energy, generating almost 40% of electricity worldwide. The world relies on coal for about 30% of the primary energy consumption in the Asia Pacific region. The largest coal producing countries are not confined to one region. Coal will continue to play a key role in the world's energy mix, with demand in certain regions, such as Asian countries, set to glow rapidly. The world consumption of coal can have a significant impact on the environment. Minimizing the negative impacts of human activities-including coal utilization- is a key global priority. Essentials to continue the clean use of coal are economically efficient and stable supply.
It is also important to evaluate non-conventional type resources such as low rank coal and Coal Bed Methane/Coal Mine Methane, to raise an increase of the amount of the resources and the resources recovery rate.
