Since a peak in 2008, annual black ore production has been cut almost in half in the US state. But the city of Gillette is determined to find ways to produce cleaner and safer coal.
From coal-brick homes to water filters, Wyoming is searching for ways to use coal without burning it. Whether that can buoy the sagging industry remains to be seen.
The coal commercialization facility near Gillette that was the recipient of the "Overcoming Adversity" award from the Mid-American Economic Development Council. It recognizes projects, initiatives, or best practices in a community that are meant to overcome challenges faced by communities, states, or regions to provide a stronger future.
The center is home to companies and researchers developing commodities like asphalt, graphene, graphite, agricultural char, carbon fiber and more using coal and coal byproducts.
Possibilities for coal’s carbon and chemical properties are expanding, revolutionizing the way in which we view this natural resource. A new carbon economy is on the horizon, and it is already proving to be a gamechanger in the United States, boosting the local economy in Wyoming.