Coal contributes more to climate change than any other energy source. Burning coal is the largest single source of carbon dioxide emissions in the world. Its extraction, processing and burning are inescapably dirty: the entire coal-to-energy process generates pollution and destructive impacts for communities, workers and the environment. “Clean coal” is simply impossible.

Thousands of people die in mining accidents each year. Digging up coal often involves the displacement of communities, with little or no compensation. The health impacts from burning coal are severe, producing pollutants that cause numerous health problems: bronchitis, emphysema, asthma, heart attacks and premature death, to name a few.