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Consequences of Coal Electricity

Coal energy is the most detrimental source of fuel available. Although measures have been taken to reduce their impact, coal plants can be blamed for many negative impacts on human health and the environment. The damage caused by such conventional methods further increases the urgency to find alternate sources of fuel.

  1. Coal Plants

    • The Montana Environmental Information Center explains that, out of all forms forms of electric generation, coal causes the most pollution. The substance is full of toxic products that affect the air, land and water. The MEIC emphasizes that other sources, such as wind, solar and water power do not cause these environmental impacts.

    Chemicals

    • Mercury is a common air pollutant, and there is no greater source of mercury than coal plants. Coal plants are responsible for 40 percent of all mercury pollution in the United States. Mercury has powerful effects on the nervous system that can cause a myriad of diseases, including developmental problems, visual impairment, heart disease, attention deficit and even fetal damage. The ash from coal-fired plants has pumped chemicals like arsenic, cadmium and chromium into ground and surface water, causing contamination. Coal plants also give off sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxide and particle emissions that pollute the air. These toxins are known to harm the lungs and cause premature death. Vegetation and water are also affected.

    Global Warming

    • The MEIC warns that coal plants are the biggest contributors to carbon dioxide pollution. This is significant because carbon dioxide is the primary cause of global warming. In the U.S., 98 percent of CO2 emissions are the result of fossil fuels, like coal. Global warming is detrimental to agriculture, forestry and animal life.

    Technology

    • Despite coal's notorious track record, recent technology can minimize its impact. Integrated Gasification and Combined Cycle technology (IGCC) is the most modern way to burn coal. This method burns coal into a gas that can then be used as fuel. These plants are more efficient, thereby producing 20 percent less carbon dioxide. Additionally, they can capture up to 95 percent of that carbon before it is released into the air. They emit only three percent as much sulfur dioxide as regular plants and cut solid waste production in half.

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