lignite

Lignite, also known as brown coal, is a type of coal that is soft, crumbly, and has a brownish color. It is formed from compressed plant material over millions of years, making it a lower-grade, less energy-dense fossil fuel compared to harder coals. Lignite is primarily used for electricity generation in power plants because it is abundant and inexpensive. However, burning lignite releases more carbon dioxide and pollutants than other coals, which contributes to environmental concerns such as climate change. It plays a significant role in some regions' energy supply but is considered less efficient and more environmentally impactful than higher-grade coals.