Coal mining impacts air quality by releasing greenhouse gases, dust, particulate matter, and methane.

Air quality is greatly impacted by coal mining in several ways. The extraction and burning of coal releases greenhouse gas emissions, mainly carbon dioxide (CO2), which fuel climate change. Additionally, dust and particulate matter produced by the mining operation can deteriorate air quality and impair the respiratory health of wildlife and local populations. Furthermore, during mining operations, coal seams may leak methane, a powerful greenhouse gas. Because methane traps heat in the atmosphere far more effectively than CO2, it is particularly problematic. When combined, these coal mining contaminants exacerbate environmental and public health issues.