Why Coal is a Problem
Health and Human Rights
Mayur Reources proposed coal-powered fire station in Morobe Province of Papua New Guinea could severely impact the public health of the 3,000 people who live in the nearby villages and the more than 100,000 people who live in the nearby city Lae.
Research finds that pollutants from burning coal can have severe human health impacts, including:
HEART
Increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, including stroke and heart attacks
LUNGS
Increased risk of respiratory and nervous systems, including increased risk of lung cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, and lethal respiratory infections.
AT RISK
Unproportional impacts on children, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with already compromised health.
The coal cycle also has other serious consequences on health and human rights.
COMMUNITY DISPLACEMENT
Coal mines have forced the displacement of numerous communities throughout the world. Displacement continues today.
DANGERS TO MINE WORKERS
Mineworkers face significant physical risk due to accidents, explosions, and mine collapses. They are also directly exposed to toxic fumes, coal dust, and toxic metals, increasing their risk for fatal lung diseases.
TRANSPORTATION
The transportation of coal is known to impact buildings and installations, which has led to death or injury for workers and members of the public. Coal transportation is also a potential health threat to communities living along transport corridors as transportation vessels (e.g., trains, trucks) emit coal dust, increasing the risk of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
