Fossil Fuels
Energy from ancient plant and animal remains
Fossil fuels come from ancient plants and animals buried underground for millions of years. Today, they power homes, transport and industries around the world.
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Oil
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Natural gas
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Coal
Oil is a thick liquid formed from ancient sea plants and animals that were buried and heated over millions of years. Today, it’s a major energy source used in everyday life.
Most people recognise oil through transport fuels like petrol, diesel and aviation fuel, which power cars, buses, lorries and planes. It also plays a role in heating systems and electricity generation in some regions.
Beyond energy, oil is used to make many familiar products. Plastics, medicines, cleaning products, packaging, sports equipment and cosmetics often rely on materials made from oil.
It also supports manufacturing by providing essential ingredients for clothing fibres and household goods. Because oil is so versatile, it remains important across global industries. However, many countries are now working to reduce reliance on oil as cleaner energy options grow.
Natural gas is a fuel found deep underground, formed from ancient plants and animals compressed over time. It is widely used because it burns cleanly compared with other fossil fuels and is easy to transport through pipelines.
In many homes, natural gas powers boilers, radiators, ovens and hobs, making it a familiar part of daily life. It is also used in electricity generation, helping to supply steady power when renewable energy levels change with the weather. Some buses and specialist vehicles run on natural gas too. Industry depends on it for heating, drying and making everyday products such as glass, fertilisers, paints and medicines.
Because it is reliable and easy to store, natural gas continues to support homes and businesses while countries explore lower‑carbon alternatives.
Coal is a solid fossil fuel made from ancient plants that were buried and compressed over millions of years.
For a long time, coal was a major source of power. It fueled steam trains, heated homes and drove machinery during the industrial revolution. Many power stations also used coal to generate electricity because it was widely available and easy to transport.
Today, coal is used much less for electricity as cleaner energy options expand. However, it still plays a role in certain industries. Steelmaking, cement production and some heavy manufacturing processes rely on coal because of the high temperatures it provides.
While its use is decreasing globally, coal remains part of the energy mix in some regions as countries transition to lower‑carbon systems and explore new technologies.
Got questions?
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What are fossil fuels?
Fossil fuels are fuels like coal, oil and natural gas. They’ve formed from ancient plants and animals over millions of years.
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Why are fossil fuels used?
They’re a reliable and powerful source of energy. We use them a lot for heating, getting around, making electricity and running factories.
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Are fossil fuels running out?
Yes. They are finite resources, which means we only have so much of them. There’s less and less left of them as time goes on and once they’re used, they can’t really be replaced.
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Why do fossil fuels link to emissions?
When you burn fossil fuels, they release carbon dioxide. That extra carbon dioxide builds up in the atmosphere and contributes to warming the planet.
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Why are alternatives being explored?
Cleaner options cut pollution and emissions. Importantly too, they can help build an energy system that works long-term, especially when you think about power that comes from infinite sources such as wind
Oil, what exactly is it used for?
Try our quiz and see what everyday household products are made from oil, some you may find surprising.
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