The primary environmental concern associated with burning coal is the release of carbon dioxide (CO2), a major contributor to climate change.

Burning coal for energy is a significant source of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, a greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming and climate change. Coal combustion produces more CO2 per unit of energy than other fossil fuels like natural gas and oil. This makes coal one of the largest drivers of environmental degradation, as increased CO2 levels trap heat in the atmosphere, leading to rising temperatures, melting ice caps, and extreme weather events. Reducing coal reliance is essential for mitigating climate change, which is why many countries are transitioning to cleaner energy sources such as wind, solar, and natural gas.