Contrary to dominant views about the industry, coal-fired power is not the cheapest fuel and its value to the community is dubious. Yet this polluting industry continues to enjoy unjustifiable support.

Doctors for the Environment (DEA) has serious concerns about Australia’s addiction to coal. The health impacts of mining, transporting and burning coal are well known and pose one of the most significant health issues of our time. The only rationale for using coal is that it is the cheapest source of energy … But according to the research, it’s not!

The attached document provides an outline of key studies that calculate the true cost of coal. The true cost means taking into account certain externalities such as healthcare and pollution.