ClimateJuly 16, 2026
lignite
/ˈlɪɡnaɪt/
Definition
A soft, brown, low-grade type of coal that is geologically intermediate between peat and bituminous coal, often used as fuel in thermal power plants.
Etymology
Derived from the Latin 'lignum' meaning 'wood', reflecting the fact that lignite often retains the visible structure of the plant matter from which it formed. It entered English in the late 18th century to describe this specific form of combustible mineral.
In the news
The article discusses the Afşin-Elbistan plant as a major complex powered by lignite. The environmental impact of mining and burning this specific type of low-grade coal is a central point of legal and policy contention in Türkiye.
Afşin-Elbistan Ruling: A Turning Point For Coal and Turkey’s Energy Transition – OpEd
Read the full article ↗Eurasia Review