Research Paper Update

1. In my paper, I am exploring "clean" coal's environmental and social effects of the coal industry and the possibility and likelihood of actual clean coal. 
2.  I think that the most useful part of my paper is the exploration of current clean technologies and the explanation of why they are not sufficient for curbing global warming and environmental degradation. 
3.  Currently, I oppose further use of clean coal. It is difficult for us as a nation to quit coal clean turkey because of the deep ties it has to the economy. Billions of dollars have already been invested into coal, however, further use of coal dooms the planet to rise above the 2 degree Celsius mark. Essentially, my position on coal is that it is dirty and that attempts to market it as "clean" are false and misleading.  Technology to make coal completely clean is not currently available and will not be in the foreseeable future and it is important to wean of fossil fuels. 
4. As a non-sciency person, I think I am the general audience on topics about energy and coal use.  It has taken some careful research to understand the chemical composition of coal and the physics and biology of coal burning and its impact on the environment. I will attempt to use background information and simple language to create the most accessible description while still exploring the concepts fully. 
Example:
The chemical composition of coal varies from deposit to deposit. In general, carbon has a higher carbon to hydrogen ratio than other fossil fuels, therefore, during combustion, the high amount of carbon combine with oxygen to create large amounts of CO2 (carbon dioxide) a major factor in climate change. (might add a chemical equation here for clarification) Coal contains a large amount of volatile substances such as fixed coal and noncombustible material such as ash which must be disposed of after burning. The rest of coal is composed of small percentages of other materials such as sulfur and mercury. Sulfur can make up anywhere from 1 to 4 percent of coal. The larger the percentage, the more difficult it is to clean the coal.
5.  Surprised? My reaction throughout my research has been more akin to "Whoa" :( *throws up in corner*. Everything about our use of coal and fossil fuels points to a nearly irreversible environmental damage. My most surprise has been the depths to which coal is ingrained in our economy and of its negative effects.

Also, I found this and thought it was an interesting (and infuriating) propaganda piece against coal. Pardon the language. .