Three factors play a role in the high per capita consumption. Its winter temperature can drop below zero. Low temperatures combined with winter winds make Wyoming's climate a vicious climate. A climate like this requires high consumption of fuels. Wyoming produces large amounts of coal, petroleum, electricity and natural gas, which are intense energy industries.
Energy consumption is compared from county to county where data is available.
James I. Drever, professor of geology and geophysics, said it is very hard to say there are benefits from mining to the environment. Drever said to his knowledge, there are physical effects, which can be thought of as disadvantages. On the other hand, Ron Schreibeis, employee of Rocky Mountain Reclamation said, Wyoming mining industries do a good job of keeping the dust particles under control. It is no worse than any other industry. He also said to his knowledge miners seem to enjoy the wildlife that are around the mines, he said the wildlife have gotten used to the noise and are not afraid.