Focus Earth: July 11 2009, Mountain Minefield and Coal's Hard Truth

In this episode of Focus Earth, host Bob Woodruff explores the controversial issue of mountaintop mining. Clearly, communities and the environment suffer from mountaintop mining, since the practice blasts off mountain peaks, leaving only a barren, polluted wasteland. On the other hand, some communities rely on mountaintop mining for their livelihood. They say that their town and its economy would collapse if the practice were banned. To get to the heart of the issue, Bob travels to the Appalachian Mountains in West Virgina, to talk to residents and experts on both sides.

First, Bob Woodruff helicopters into the scene, getting a birds eye view of Appalachian Mountains, where mountaintop mining is prevalent. From here he can see what is at stake: the rivers, forests, and habitats affected by mountaintop mining. He goes on the ground to speak with residents who passionately argue that they are affected too, including the last holdout living on top of a coal-rich mountain surrounded by active mountain-top mines. The controversy plays as Bob speaks to grassroots activists against the practice as well as supporters of mountaintop mining who believe it is a viable, much needed energy source.

Next, Focus Earth explores how the mountaintop mining debate is dividing a community In Coal River Valley, WV. Local activists are joined by celebrities who want want move the local elementary school to protect the children from mountaintop mining's negative effects. However locals, even parents and teachers, rely on the coal facility for financial support.

Then, Bob Woodruff explores the spreading negative effects of mountaintop mining. He finds that the pollution and destruction associated with the practice is not isolated to one area—there is a ripple effect. In fact the Adirondacks, nearly 100 miles away from WV, are suffering from the effects of a major coal-burning power facility. Bob examines how the pollution, acid rain caused by the plant has put the Adirondack animals and their habitat in serious danger.

Finally, Focus Earth takes a tour of a new coal plant experimenting with carbon capture. Can this be the future of coal? Its supporters say that this technology makes for cleaner and more efficient use of coal. But others say there is no such thing as clean coal. Their solution: a slow transition away from coal. Bob Woodruff tours one facility that's starting to make that transition.

Don't miss Focus on Focus Earth: Mountain Minefield and Coal's Hard Truth

Check the Planet Green schedule to see these stories and more on Focus Earth.

More on Mountaintop Mining
EPA to Regulate Mountaintop Removal Coal Mining More Stringently
You Can Stop Mountaintop Removal Mining
An Alternative to Mountaintop Removal Coal Mining in West Virginia
Green Gorilla Cartoon Tells Kids About Mountain Top Removal
Majority of American Public Opposes Mountaintop Removal