VOICED: Can coal ever be clean?

The video discusses the concept of clean coal, highlighting its role in electricity generation and the billions spent on developing clean coal technologies. It introduces a carbon capture project in West Virginia, which reduces greenhouse gas emissions by a small margin. Critics argue that clean coal is a misnomer due to the environmental damage caused by coal-fired power plants and mountaintop removal mining. The video also covers the challenges of ecosystem reclamation and the US's struggle to meet climate goals ahead of the Copenhagen summit.

What is the main criticism of clean coal technologies?

• They increase the efficiency of power plants.

• They only reduce a small percentage of greenhouse gases.

• They are too expensive to implement.

• They are widely accepted as a solution to climate change.

How much mercury does a typical coal-fired power plant emit?

• 50 pounds

• 100 pounds

• 200 pounds

• 170 pounds

What is the impact of mountaintop removal mining?

• It reduces the cost of coal extraction.

• It destroys forests and contaminates water bodies.

• It preserves local ecosystems.

• It increases coal production efficiency.

What do scientists say about reclamation projects?

• They completely restore the original biodiversity.

• They often introduce non-native species.

• They are highly effective in restoring ecosystems.

• They are unnecessary for environmental recovery.

What challenge does the U.S. face in global climate talks?

• Reducing coal prices.

• Increasing coal exports.

• Finding new coal reserves.

• Deploying coal plants clean enough to meet international goals.