Coal's Hidden Cost: Study Reveals Surprising Health Impact of Power Plant Pollution

Recent research in Science highlights the underestimated health risks from coal power plant pollution, with findings linked to premature deaths."

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The study meticulously tracks sulfur dioxide emissions from U.S. coal plants, correlating them with an alarming rise in mortality rates.

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Coal combustion releases a complex mix of pollutants, significantly impacting lung and heart health among the elderly.

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The research reveals a startling 460,000 premature deaths attributed to coal plant pollution between 1999 and 2020.

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Regulations on emissions have led to a noticeable decline in deaths, from 55,000 in 1999 to just 1,600 in 2020.

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Despite these improvements, the global reliance on coal for energy highlights an urgent need for international policy action.

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The study presents a compelling case for the transition towards cleaner energy sources to mitigate health and environmental risks.

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