As Coal Rebounds, More Toxic Mercury Is in the Air
The New York Times • • business
Key Points:
- Mercury emissions from coal-fired power plants in the U.S. increased by about 9 percent in 2025, totaling over 4,800 pounds, reversing a long-term decline in this toxic pollutant.
- The Trump administration has promoted increased coal use by encouraging coal-fired electricity purchases, reopening federal lands for mining, and blocking stricter pollution controls set for 2027.
- Policies under the administration have also forced some coal plants, like Michigan’s J.H. Campbell plant, to remain operational beyond their planned closure dates, contributing to continued mercury emissions.
- These actions have hindered the growth of cleaner energy sources such as wind and solar, potentially leading to higher emissions of mercury and other pollutants in the coming years.