2006-12-04 09:47:44 · 5 answers · asked by Anonymous in Science & Mathematics ➔ Earth Sciences & Geology
Cheap available heat
2006-12-04 09:53:14 · answer #1 · answered by elaeblue 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
In Ireland bog-lands cover about 16.2% of the land. Turf from the bog, also known as peat is partially decomposed vegetation at a stage before it becomes coal. It is a natural source of heat that has been used as fuel in Ireland for more than 2000 years. People who live near a bog still cut their own turf and dry it over the Summer to be used for heating in the winter.
In the cities coal was mainly used, but because of the shortages during and after World War II when coal could not be imported, the Irish government set up Bord na Móna (móna is Irish word for turf) in 1946 to automate the cutting of turf by machines and make it more readily available to those in the cities. The milled peat is formed into Peat Briquettes which burn hotter than the raw turf and is cleaner to handle than coal. Turf also produces a beautiful sweet smell when burning which people love, so much that a market for 'turf incense' has been found for emigrants from Ireland who long for that nostalgic aroma.
2006-12-05 07:14:16 · answer #2 · answered by alpha 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Originally because they thought he was a warlock. Now, even though they know Peat (or Pete, if you prefer) is no such thing, it's just because they're an ornery lot in the wet season.
2006-12-04 10:35:44 · answer #3 · answered by JIMBO 4 · 1⤊ 1⤋
Because it is a cheap (often free) source of available fuel for heating.
2006-12-04 10:41:59 · answer #4 · answered by caring_funlovingteacher 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Its a biofuel. This makes it renewable resource. Which is not a bad way to go.
2006-12-04 10:57:05 · answer #5 · answered by Dan 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋