Here is how the recent spill in Tennessee affected one individual.
Democracy Now covered this in detail interviewing several people. One was Anne Paine who writes for the Tennessean. Her articles on this disaster are here.
It's my hope this administration in the end puts emphasis on alternatives to coal as "clean coal" is a myth. Sure we're going to continue to use it but as alternatives are implemented begin phasing coal out. Nuclear is another issue. As a country with the right leadership and participation from the people a change to significant amounts of alternative energy being produced can be accomplished and must be.
Colorado has a long history associated with coal that continues to this day. Every place I've lived there was coal and here is no exception. There are two power plants directly to the west the furthest 40 miles away.
In fairness it needs to be said maybe 10-12 years ago after a long battle these plants were forced to install scrubbers. After doing so the effects of acid rain in the Zirkel Wilderness Area stopped.
Effects of burning coal can be lessened but you sure as hell shouldn't have to fight it out in court to see that it's done.
Businesses want to make money, but they don't want to clean up the mess. Just leave that to the tax payers.
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