The coal industry is such an important part of America’s society and economy that is important to keep in mind the many uses and advantages of coal when we discuss carbon policy and cap and trade. While coal emissions are and will remain a concern, it is a valuable resource. The United States is one of the top 5 coal producers in the world, and we use it to power the industries that give jobs to Americans.
Uses of Coal
The uses of coal are numerous, but the main place coal has in our society is to generate electricity. It generates electricity as a substitute for natural gas by burning it to release its natural gases.
Coal Mining Technology
Clean coal technology has come a long way over the past century. Whereas before all the coal mining would pollute the air with thick clouds of smoke and leave the surrounding areas devastated, coal mining companies have developed technologies to store the pollution deep underground. They also have new machines that are more efficient and require less destruction of the habitat.
Coal Mining Jobs
The most important part of the coal industry to America is the amount of coal mining jobs it creates. In big coal states like Kentucky, mining producers employ thousands of workers to operate machinery and work the mines. They also employ administrators like human resources staff and even commodity traders to lock in good coal prices with futures contracts.