The Modern Coal Miner

Coal is the largest utilised resource of energy worldwide, as well as one of the largest worldwide anthropogenic sources of carbon dioxide releases. The extraction of coal, its use in energy production and its byproducts are all associated with environmental and health effects including climate change. Since 19th century, coal production has been a founding provider for the communities in the Appalachian regions of USA. Due to shifting world energy markets and mechanisation of the mining process, coal mining jobs have plummeted in the last decades. Economy in the coal mining areas of Appalachia has become unmoored, with tragic societal consequences. Many unemployed that can’t afford, or do not wish to leave their beloved birthplace, end up addicted to opioids. West Virginia, has the highest overdose rate in the country. The remaining miners are proud to be providing for their families and are considered as heroes equal to war veterans by the coal dependant communities of Appalachia. These are the modern coal miners of West Virginia.