What is the impact of coal on sustainable development
Understanding the challenges in excluding coal from sustainable development.
The use of coal has a significant impact on sustainable development, as it poses several challenges in its exclusion from sustainable development goals:
- Environmental Impact: Coal combustion releases greenhouse gases, contributing to climate change and air pollution. This affects the overall environmental sustainability.
- Public Health Concerns: Coal mining and combustion emit harmful pollutants, leading to respiratory diseases and other health issues for communities residing near coal-fired power plants or mines.
- Carbon Intensive: Coal is a high-carbon fuel source, and its continued use hinders efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.
- Economic Considerations: The coal industry employs a significant number of people, relying on coal extraction for livelihoods. Transitioning away from coal requires careful planning to ensure a just transition for workers and coal-dependent regions.
- Energy Security: Many countries heavily rely on coal as a primary energy source, and reducing its use may impact energy security and stability.
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