Opencast coal-mining has undergone a recent resurgence in the UK, mainly due to the increase in global coal and gas prices. Mining companies and power stations are increasingly looking to opencast mines to provide a cheaper supply of coal - expensive imports currently account for 70 % of coal burned in the UK.
Not only do opencast mines deface some of our finest landscapes and wreck tranquillity, they can have a devastating effect on nearby communities and wildlife, while hindering efforts to reduce CO2 emissions.
Quarrying and mining
Opencast coal-mining
Opencast coal-mining
- Policy guidance notes
- A4, 3pp
- December 2008
- PDF: Opencast coal-mining
See all in
Quarrying and mining
