He signed an order directing the Pentagon to produce electricity from coal-fired power plants.
For his reversal of energy standards and safety he was awarded the "Undisputed Champion of Beautiful Clean Coal" by Peabody Energy. He can now add that trophy to his growing collection of fake trophies created just for him. Like when FIFA (of all things a soccer organization) awarded him the first annual Peace Prize Trophy.
Trump told the Energy Department to provide $175 million in federal funds for upgrades at several coal plants. In response, the Natural Resources Defense Council wrote, "While Americans are demanding clean, affordable energy, the Trump administration is using our tax dollars to prop up the nation's dirtiest, least efficient power plants. It's no wonder fossil fuel lobbyists are handing Trump an award."
In 1980 I was a regional editor for a national publication called The National Woodstove and Fireplace Journal. Just out of college I was thrilled to have such a well-paying journalistic job. So, I ended up doing a lot of research on the different types of coal.
I learned that Anthracite was the cleanest burning type of coal (containing 86%-97% carbon). It was heavily promoted by The Journal and at the time I was in favor of Anthracite coal. The only problem was a growing list of reasons why we weren't mining it.
Today Anthracite constitutes less than 1% of U.S. coal. The major source for of coal production is subbituminous coal which accounts for about 46% of all U.S. coal production. It has a lower heating value and just contains 35%-45% carbon.
The dirtiest type of coal is Lignite (Brown coal). It only has 25%-45% carbon. It's high moisture and low energy content makes it less efficient. It's primarily used for, or near, power plants.
This coal legislation is part and parcel of Trump's plans to deregulate safety guidelines for our environment.
He just signed the single largest deregulatory action in U.S. history. In it he eliminated the Obama-era Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Endangerment Finding and all subsequent federal emission standards for all vehicles and engines of model years 2012 to 2027 and beyond.
Trump has revoked the bedrock scientific determination that gives the government the ability to regulate climate-heating pollution. It was a gift to his billionaire polluter buddies.
The path to getting Trump's backing on something involves making up trophies or giving him golden gifts like a crown. As the most transactional president in our history continues to take away environmental safety nets there doesn't seem like a way to stop him.
As it Stands, Trump's legacy will continue to haunt future generations as gas masks become regular attire when people go outside.
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