How does mining coal affect the environment?
Coal, like all other sources of energy, has a number of environmental impacts, from both coal mining and coal use. Coal mining raises a number of environmental challenges, including soil erosion, dust, noise and water pollution, and impacts on local biodiversity. Steps are taken in modern mining operations to minimise these impacts. The coal industry recognises it must meet the challenge of environmental sustainability—in particular coal must significantly reduce its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Technological innovation will allow demand for coal to be met without an unacceptable environmental impact. The wider deployment of clean coal technologies will have a significant impact on the environmental performance of coal in both developed and developing countries. The development and deployment of best practice clean coal technologies must continue and further development of advanced coal technology is needed. Carbon capture and storage will also be required if substantial cuts in GHG
