Is propane really safe for the environment?
We all know that propane is an incredibly useful fuel for heating and cooking (hello summer bbq!), but is it really safe for the environment? A lot of people seem to be concerned about the potential impacts of using this fuel, so let's take a closer look at the facts. Is propane really as bad as some people think, or is it a safe and sustainable option for our energy needs?
Many confuse the difference between propane and natural gas. While both make great ways to heat your home and fuel vehicles, there are important differences.
Natural gas is found below ground and contains a mixture of various gases. Propane is a product of processing (distillation) of natural gas and is stored in containers (usually cylinders) above ground.
Energy Efficiency - Propane has a 2,516 BTUs in one cubic foot, where as the same volume in natural gas is only 1,030 BTUs (Source) making the burn efficiency of propane twice that of natural gas.
Environmental impact - Propane plays a key role in sustainability and innovation. It is easily transported and is a low-carbon, renewable energy source. While natural gas is also considered a clean-burning fuel, propane is more friendly to the environment than natural gas.
Using a propane fueled flame weeder really is an eco-friendly way to get rid of weeds in your yard and garden. There is no chemical run-off and propane is a clean burning naturally occurring (some would even call it a byproduct!) fuel that is easily accessible.
To learn more about propane, visit our friends at https://www.npga.org/impact/environment/
- Sarah Nattier