ABSTRACT
Interest and concern for the environmental aspects of energy development have become more important nationally and locally only in recent years. In the case of coal, environmental concerns begin with the exploration phase of searching for a suitable mining site and extend to the removal of noxious waste products from burning coal. Planning to reduce the environmental impacts resulting from coal mine development has become an accepted part of the overall mining plan. Implementation of impact studies can begin. This usually includes, as a minimum: environmental baseline studies; socio-economic studies; archaeological studies; and environmental analysis and mitigation. Environmental problems from contour mining or augering appear to be similar to those of area mining. A secondary environmental impact of coal-generated electricity is the transmission and distribution system which requires overhead transmission lines, towers, and poles. The potential for some type of adverse environmental impact can be found in every aspect of coal extraction and utilization.
