Scientists Discover Pollution from Coal Plants More Harmful Than Initially Thought
A new study has found that particles in air from coal power plants are harmful to human health, as they heighten the risk of premature deaths. The research is based on a landmark study from the 1990s, which linked airborne particles to a heightened risk of early death. The particles, called PM2.5, are tiny enough to be inhaled deep into an individual’s lungs. They are released when coal, which is made up of carbon, sulfur, hydrogen and sometimes metals, is burned. In addition to being released in coal emissions, these particles can also come from smoke emitted by wood fires…