"Coal is energy stored in dead plant matter from prehistoric times. Large mines built to extract coal erode the soil, leach toxic chemicals into nearby streams and aquifers, and destroy essential habitats. Burning coal generates 55% of the electricity in the U.S., while it produces about 2/3rds of the sulfur dioxide, 1/4th of the nitrogen oxide, and 1/3rd of the carbon dioxide emissions in our air. Concerns about the effects of this pollution on global climate and the acid damage it causes to the environment is leading to seriously restricting its use."
from "Clean Air Primer" |
