Coal Plants = Toxic Mercury
Coal plants are one of the largest sources of man-made mercury pollution in the U.S. Every year 300,000 infants are born at risk for developmental defects because of their mother's exposure to toxic mercury pollution.
This toxic pollution causes serious health problems, including brain damage. Almost 2/3 of coal-fired plants lack the needed modern pollution controls to keep toxic air pollution, like mercury, acid gases and arsenic, out of our air and water.
Check out the map above to find out if there is a polluting coal plant near you and find out how you can help phase out this old, dirty way of generating power and transition to the cleaner, healthier, energy technologies that will power tomorrow's economy.
- Carbon dioxide is a leading cause of global warming. Coal plants are responsible for over 30% of U.S. global warming emissions. Close.
- Coal plants are the largest source of sulfur dioxide pollution. Sulfur dioxide is a contributor to soot which can cause permanent lung damage, breathing problems and other health problems. It is also a major cause of acid rain. Close.
- Nitrogen oxides are a main component of smog. Smog doesn't just ruin your view; it also poses serious health threats. Even at low levels smog can aggravate asthma, cause chest pain and cough and worsen respiratory problems. Coal plants are the second largest source of NOx in the nation. Close.
- Mercury (lbs):
- Coal plants are one of the largest sources of man-made mercury pollution in the U.S. The mercury problem in America is so widespread that every year 600,000 infants are born at risk for developmental defects because of their mother's high blood mercury levels. Mercury has also been linked to a greater risk of heart disease in men. Less than one teaspoon of mercury can contaminate an entire lake. Close.
- HC1 and H2SO4:
- Sulfuric (H2SO4) and Hydrochloric acid (HCl) are acid gases that can cause respiratory irritation, like chronic bronchitis. Children can be especially vulnerable to this type of air pollution. Since these acid gases don't travel far from the emission site, those living near the coal plants are most at risk. Close.