Coal mining has a significant impact on the environment. The extraction process involves deforestation, which leads to the loss of wildlife habitat and disrupts the hydrological cycle. Additionally, coal mining generates large amounts of waste containing hazardous chemicals such as sulfuric acid and heavy metals. These wastes can contaminate soil, surface water, and groundwater, threatening aquatic ecosystems and human health. Coal dust carried by the wind can also cause air pollution and respiratory issues.

Furthermore, coal mining contributes to global climate change. The burning of coal releases large amounts of greenhouse gases, particularly carbon dioxide (CO2), into the atmosphere. The increased concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere enhances the greenhouse effect, exacerbating global warming. The climate change impacts caused by coal burning include rising global temperatures, increased frequency and intensity of natural disasters such as floods and storms, and extreme weather pattern changes.