The Low-down on Coal - Energy Week Facts from theEnergy Information Association(US DOE):Coal mining causes severe erosion and leaches toxic chemicals into nearby aquifers and destroys habitats.Coal burning produces two-thirds of sulfur dioxide, one-third of carbon dioxide emissions and one-quarter of the nitrogen oxide emissions in the US.Coal burning releases fine particles matter into the atmosphere that aggravate asthma, reduce lung function, cause respiratory disease and premature death for thousands of Americans.Nitrogen oxide released from coal burning forms smog that causes crop, forest and property damage. Nitrogen oxide and sulfur dioxide released from coal burning creates acid rain that acidifies soils and water killing plants, fish and animals.Coal burning in 2005 produced 7,142. By beeb49in Public bookmarkswith 071101coal