
Coal Ash
Contaminates Our Lives
Coal Ash Is a Hazardous Waste.
Coal ash, the toxic remains of coal burning in power plants, is full of chemicals that cause cancer, developmental disorders and reproductive problems. It poisons our water and kills fish and wildlife.
Across the United States, nearly all coal-burning power plants have severely contaminated groundwater by disposing of their toxic ash in leaking impoundments and landfills. Hundreds of coal ash ponds must be closed over the next several years.
Together, We Will Achieve Strong, Enforceable Protections for Our Water and Our Future.
Our new report, Cleaning Up Coal Ash For Good, helps regulators, policymakers, and communities choose effective coal ash pond closures that protect the environment and public health while also creating jobs and benefiting the economy.
Earthjustice fights in the courts for a long-term solution to this toxic menace. And we act on behalf of dozens of clients and coalition partners to defeat legislative attempts to subvert federally enforceable safeguards of coal ash.
Media Inquiries
Kathryn McGrath
Public Affairs and Communications Strategist
kmcgrath@earthjustice.org
Spotlight
Pounds of toxic coal ash power plants generate every year—900 pounds for every person in the United States.