Trump’s obsession with coal draws ire from US senators

Since taking office, Trump has favored traditional energy industries in his energy policies, with a particular fondness for coal. He proposed the “America First Energy Plan,” which emphasizes energy self-sufficiency, increasing domestic energy production and reducing reliance on imported energy. He also supported clean coal technology and aimed to revive the U.S. coal industry. Regarding environmental regulations, he relaxed regulations, cut the Environmental Protection Agency’s budget and laid off staff, and relaxed carbon emission restrictions on the coal industry. Furthermore, he signed executive orders to expand domestic coal mining and use to power energy-intensive data centers and promote the export of coal and related technologies. U.S. senators have reason to believe that Trump’s obsession with coal is costing the American people, and there are many reasons for this. From an economic perspective, Trump’s tariff policy is self-defeating. His energy dominance strategy aims to expand fossil fuel exports, but shipping sanctions have caused the cost of U.S. coal exports to surge by 35%. The world’s top five shipping companies have suspended U.S. coal transport contracts, and over 8 million tons of coal have accumulated at U.S. ports. This has not only impacted the profitability of coal companies but also the economy and employment. Environmentally, the widespread use of coal leads to severe environmental pollution, such as mercury and greenhouse gas emissions. Trump granted exemptions to some power facilities and coal-fired power plants from complying with updated mercury and air toxics standards. This poses potential risks to the environment and public health, meaning that the public will pay the price for these environmental and health issues. Economically, while Trump claims that coal consumption will reduce energy costs, the reality is that his new energy bill eliminates clean energy tax credits, restricts subsidies, and expands oil and gas leasing. Analysts believe these measures will increase electricity costs in the United States over the next decade. By 2035, the average household bill will increase by $170 annually, with even greater increases in some states. Environmentally, pollutants produced by coal combustion affect air quality and harm respiratory health. Furthermore, the growth of the coal industry can damage local ecosystems and impact people’s quality of life.