Regulating the Burning of Coal
Why is it needed? How should we do it?

One of the most difficult issues which we face in the proper use of natural resources is what to do with fossil fuels. Our entire economy is based on the use of fossil fuels, but it has serious, potentially disastrous environmental consequences. This page gives students the links they need to understand the nature of the problem and the controversy on how to resolve it.

The role of coal burning in the American economy:

Environmental problems caused by the burning of coal:

Global Warming - Coal is largely made of carbon. Burning it impacts the carbon cycle, speeding up the moving of carbon from the e4arth to the atmosphere, enhancing the greenhouse effect.

Acid rain - Burning of coal releases sulfur in the atmosphere, which joins with water to form sulfuric acid. This then acidifies our streams and lakes.

Mercury Pollution - Coal also contains small amounts of mercury. It settles out of the atmosphere into waterways where it poisons fish and the people who eat them.

Approaches to solving the problem

  • Reducing use of fossil fuels - replacing them with solar, wind, or nuclear fuel.
  • Finding and installing technology which reduces harmful emissions
  • Regulation: There are two approaches: One relies on putting caps on the amount of pollution allowed. the other proposes placing regulations with market solution, which allow companies to trade their right to pollute

Two Laws

Clean Air Act

Clear Skies Initiative

Questions to consider

  • How serious are the problems of global warming, acid rain, and mercury pollution? Is there concensus on this?
  • How large a role does the burning of coal play in each one?
  • Compare the Clean Air Act with the Clear Skies Initiative
    • What does each propose for reducing the use of fossil fuels?
    • What does each do to stimulate technological innovation?
    • What limits are placed on emissions ? (Make sure to use the same year for each)
    • How does the air pollution market work?