Air Pollution: Fossil fuel combustion releases pollutants like carbon dioxide (CO₂), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), and particulate matter, which contribute to air pollution.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions: The primary environmental concern is the release of CO₂, a greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming and climate change.

Acid Rain: SO₂ and NOₓ released during burning can combine with water vapor in the atmosphere to form sulfuric and nitric acids, leading to acid rain that damages ecosystems, buildings, and soil.

Global Warming: The accumulation of CO₂ and other greenhouse gases in the atmosphere traps heat, leading to rising global temperatures and altering weather patterns.

Habitat Destruction: Extracting fossil fuels often involves activities like mining and drilling, which can destroy natural habitats, leading to biodiversity loss.

Water and Soil Pollution: Oil spills, chemical runoff from mining, and air pollutants settling on land and water sources can lead to contamination, harming wildlife and ecosystems.