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Coal ash contains many toxic substances that may affect human health, if people are exposed to them above a certain concentration in the form of particulate matter.So it is necessary to avoid situations in which employees working in coal-fired power plants or public members living close to coal ash landfills will be exposed to high coal ash dust concentrations. [4]
The Mpumalanga highveld in South Africa is the most polluted area in the world due to the mining industry and coal plant power stations [37] and the lowveld near the famous Kruger Park is under threat of new mine projects as well. [38] Illustration of air pollutants generated by U.S. power plants (includes both coal-fired and oil-fired plants)
Coal ash is hazardous and toxic to human beings and some other living things. [141] Coal ash contains the radioactive elements uranium and thorium. Coal ash and other solid combustion byproducts are stored locally and escape in various ways that expose those living near coal plants to radiation and environmental toxics. [142]
Of these, Co, Cu, Fe, Ni, and Zn are trace elements required in small amounts for enzyme and redox reactions essential in plant development. [2] However, past a certain threshold they become toxic. The other heavy metals listed are considered toxic at any concentration and can bioaccumulate, posing a health hazard to humans if consumed. [6]
The piles also create a fire hazard, with the potential to spontaneously ignite. Because most coal refuse harbors toxic components, it is not easily reclaimed by replanting with plants like beach grasses. [5] [6] Gob has about four times as much toxic mercury and more sulfur than typical coal. [1] Culm is the term for waste anthracite coal. [1]
Despite massive investments in renewable energy, coal-fired plants continue to generate about 60% of China's electricity. Imports also hit a record, reaching 542.7 million tons of coal in 2024, a ...
As of July 2023, 210 coal-fired power plants were operational in the United States. [22] In 2018 an environmental justice advisor to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) stated that the increased toxic exposures from ash ponds will have disproportionate adverse health effects on low-income and minority communities. [23]
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