Effective emission control is the only thing that is going to ensure ongoing demand for thermal coal in today’s climate-conscious world. The US Energy Information Administration reports the six main problem coal-burning emissions as sulphur dioxide, which the administration says contributes to acid rain and respiratory illnesses; nitrogen oxides, which contribute to smog and respiratory illnesses; particulates, which contribute to smog, haze, respiratory illnesses and lung disease; carbon dioxide, which is the primary greenhouse gas produced; mercury, which is linked to neurological and developmental damage; and fly ash, the residue created when power plants burn coal. That is a long list and the law already states clearly that they must at least be minimised.