::trixxie17

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This is the smokestack of the coal fired electricity generating plant at Pleasant Prairie Wisconsin. The Pleasant Prairie power plant burns 13,000 tons of coal per day and provides 13.5% of Wisconsin's electricity. When coal is used as a fuel source, the gaseous emissions generated by the thermal decomposition of the coal include sulphur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), carbon dioxide (CO2), mercury, and other chemical byproducts that vary depending on the type of the coal being used. These emissions have been established to have a negative impact on the environment, contributing to acid rain and other pollutants. According to United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, the burning of coal, a fossil fuel, is a major contributor to global warming. I will fully admit that I love all my modern conveniences but every time I see this smokestack I question what we are doing to one of our most valuable elements - the air we breathe. This was taken about 9:30am with clear skies by late afternoon there is always a high thin layer of clouds in this area because of what has been put into the atmosphere. I don't know the answer because we all know the dangers in nuclear power too. My entry for the elements contest.