Geography Reference
In-Depth Information
Today, the United States is still the world's second largest producer of steel, after
China. The US production of 1 billion tons in 2003 represents 20% of world
production for that year. Proven reserves amount to the equivalent of 500 years of
production at present rates, although exports are declining. After peaking in the early
1990s to nearly 11% of national production, only 4% of the steady production is
currently exported, while imports are increasing due to more competitive prices and
the rapid increase in the consumption of coal for producing electricity.
Alaska
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50
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Main producing States
2002 (Millions of Tons)
380
Gray Coal Field (Anthracite)
38
190
Bituminous Coal Field (low Sulphur)
Source: Statistical Abstract of the United States
Designed and made by JM Zaninetti, University of Orleans, CEDETE Institute
Figure 2.14.
Coal regions and production 2002
Eight states are responsible for 81.5% of domestic production (see Figure 2.14).
In 1970, 80% of national production (470 million tons) came from the Appalachian
states, with Kentucky and West Virginia leading the production ranks. Rich in
anthracite, Appalachian coal is ideal for the steel industry. In 2002, production in
this region was only 420 million tons or 40% of national production. This was due to
the decline of metallurgy and the relatively high cost of extraction. The mountains'
deposits are far from being depleted, however, and account for more than 36% of the
country's proven reserves. The exploitation of mainland deposits occurs chiefly in
