What is coking coal primarily used for?

Coking coal, or metallurgical coal, is predominantly used to produce coke, a vital component for blast furnaces in the steelmaking industry.

How does coking coal differ from thermal coal?

Coking coal has specific coking properties (low impurities) required for steel production, while thermal coal is primarily burned to generate electricity.

Which countries are major producers of coking coal?

Leading producers include Australia, the United States, Canada, Russia, and China, with Australia being the largest exporter.

What factors influence coking coal prices?

Prices are mainly driven by global steel demand, supply availability, mining costs, freight rates, and macroeconomic conditions.

Is coking coal extraction environmentally impactful?

Yes, like other fossil fuels, coking coal mining and use contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and can lead to habitat disruption and water pollution.