I live near a coal plant..should i be concerned?

Question

I live near a coal plant, I have mild concerns about it but i hear mixed things..the coal plant was here long before the houses were built, I just don't think anyone would build here if it were dangerous, and the coal plant had a major makeover as far as cleaning the emissions..still it worries me..would you raise your family near a coal plant???

Answer 1

First, coal combustion produces carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases that are suspected to cause climatic warming, and it is a source of sulfur oxides and nitrogen oxides, which are harmful to human health and may be largely responsible for acid rain. Second, although not as well known, releases from coal combustion contain naturally occurring radioactive materials--mainly, uranium and thorium.

When coal is burned, these substances are released in coal plant smoke stack gases and fine particles that contaminate human lungs as well as air, water and soil near the plant. So people who live near the plants are likely to get a daily dose of these carcinogens with each breath they take, in the water they drink and in any food that is grown nearby.

Kentucky, the state most reliant on coal for power production, ranks number one in the per capita mortality rate at over 44 deaths per 100,000 adults, according to the report.

Answer 2

Other than the CO2 issue, coall plants are safe--if air quality standards are maintained.  In the last 2-3 years, Bush has largely exempted the coal companies from having to comply with thelaw, however.  So you should be very concerned--especially if you have children.

Answer 3

No. There are no problems living near a coal plant. If you have any concerns, the mine should have a community liaison officer of environmental health and safety officer.  Ask them