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Black Lungs: Hidden Tolls of Coal Mining (Trailer)

4,638 views · Published 19 May 2010 · 1:13 · Indexed 26 September 2026

Channel: Asia Society · 2010 · Nonprofits & Activism

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Coal makes up 70% of Chinas primary energy consumption and has powered its economic engine for decades. But there are hidden costs behind this dirty fuel, both to human health and to the environment. At least a quarter million Chinese have died from coal mine accidents in China since 1949, according to official statistics. Those who do survive are hardly unscathed. Many suffer from occupational hazards like the fatal black lung disease and maimed limbs. Some estimates put the external environmental cost from coal mining at 7% of Chinas gross domestic product. In short, what consumers pay for electricity and other forms of energy in China is hugely subsidized and does not account for these true, often hideous, costs associated with the complete cycle of coal usage. When miners lungs turn black, it is a grim reminder that coal is much more than just a source of energy.
 
For more info:  
http://sites.asiasociety.org/chinagreen/feature-black-lungs/

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