Air

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EPA reports that the nation’s air quality has improved dramatically over the past  several decades. Regulated emissions from coal-fired power plants have been reduced by over 60 percent over the last 30 years, while emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxide (NOx) and mercury are expected to decline further over the next decade. These reductions have been accomplished while electricity from coal has increased approximately 140%.

Mining itself has little impact on air quality.

Did you know?

  • U.S. mining companies have reclaimed for other beneficial uses more than 2.6 million acres of mined land.
  • Coal plants in the 21st century emit 40% less co2 than the average 20th century coal plant, according to the World Coal Institute.
  • Mining has touched less than one-half of one percent of all the land in the United States.
© 2013, National Mining Association