Alaska Coal

Under the Tundra, Forests and Waterways of Alaska

Picture the things that make Alaska great and you'll probably think of the abundant wildlife, healthy ecosystems, and wild places of our state.  Its unlikely that you'll think of dirty coal - but under the tundra, forests, and waterways of Alaska is roughly half of the United States' total coal reserves, which translates to nearly 1/8 of the coal on Earth.   To see a profile of Alaska's coal reserves, click here.

Even with current volatility in the energy market, local utilities, foreign markets, and outside investors are increasing the pressure to develop Alaska's vast coal reserves.

The Lasting Impacts of Coal

Coal-fired power plants are the source of 20% of global greenhouse emissions, and among polluting fossil fuels, coal is the worst!  Coal produces more CO2, particulates, acid rain pollutants, and heavy metal emissions than either gas or oil.  Coal surface strip mining completely removes extensive areas of habitat through heavy blasting needed to access coal seams buried hundreds of feet beneath the ground.   The long term, permanent impacts of coal are substantial.

ACE is working to protect the Alaska you love by keeping coal in the ground.  See below for current information on the projects we are working on and how you can get involved.

CHUITNA COAL PROJECTS - These projects would set a dangerous precedent of mining directly through a vibrant salmon stream.  ACE believes There Oughta Be a Law against mining through a salmon stream.

MATANUSKA VALLEY COAL PROJECTS - Find out more about these projects in the Matanuska Valley.