Introduction to Awareness Raising 

By investigating coal pollution in your community, you are now 

aware of the impact, the stakeholders, the personal stories, 

and now have a more complete picture of coal pollution in your 

community. The next step is to share that knowledge with 

others, from community members who are directly affected by 

the pollution, to public officials, to the media. This section will 

provide you with the tools to create and refine your educational 

message, hold events to share that information, and interface 

with the media. Use these tools to help tell your community's 

story of coal pollution. 

4t... 

–71•4Sixty-eight percent of African 

Americans live within 30 miles of a 

power plant — the distance within 

which the maximum effects of the 

smokestack plume occur." 

Framing Your Educational Messaging 

Based on your investigative efforts, the next step will be to prepare to discuss the impacts of coal fired 

power plants on the community with the people who are impacted. Whether you are talking with a small 

church group, attending a town hall meeting, preparing for a radio, TV, or newspaper interview, hosting a 

public hearing on clean air regulations, or speaking with a public official, you can use these key points to 

express the risk that our community faces. Additionally, during this process, incorporate the findings from 

your earlier inves igations. These ey points should be noted when planning to address clean air issues 

and its impact on the African-American community. 

'Key Points to Remember when Framing your Message: 

1. Clean air is essential to the African-American community for a number of reasons. Many polluting 

facilities are disproportionately located near African-American communities. 

Low-income communities and communities of color bear the greatest burden of dirty coal energy: 

a. A total of 5.9 million Americans live within three miles of a major coal-fired power plant. 

b. Those 5.9 million people have an 

average per capita income of $18,400 —

17% lower than the U.S. average. 

c. Out of those 5.9 million people, 39.0% 

are people of color. 

3. In every major city in the US, blacks are more 

likely than whites to be exposed to higher air 

toxics concentrations." 

Mercury from these power plants accumulates in 

local waterways and poses a direct risk to people 

when they eat contaminated fish.lv 

Hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) such as mercury, 

benzene, and dioxins have the greatest impact on people located within a mile of power plants. 

With smokestacks that reach up to 1,000 feet high, some of these toxic chemicals can travel far, 

causing regional and even global impacts many thousands of miles away.v 

NAACP Coal Blooded Action Toolkit 22page 
6. In the 2008 study that found greater risk for premature death for Blacks/African-Americans, 

researchers also found greater risk for people living in areas with higher unemployment or higher 

use of public transportation.v, 

i

& 7. Sixty-eight percent of African Americans live within 30 miles of a power plant — the distance within 

which the maximum effects of the smokestack plume are expected to occur. By comparison, about 

56% of the white population lives within 30 miles of a coal-fired power plant.vii 

8. All 50 states, the District of Columbia, 5 tribes and two U.S. territories have issued fish advisories, 

many of them due to the risks of mercury poisoning. 

At least 1 in 12, and as many as 1 in 6 American women of childbearing age have enough mercury 

in their bodies to put a baby at risk for mercury poisoninglx. Mercury and other dangerous air 

pollutants are connected to extreme health problems: brain damage, learning disabilities, birth 

defects, heart disease, cancer and even pre-mature death.x 

10. Sulfur dioxide, or SO2, is one of the main pollutants produced by burning coal. Immediately, SO2 

causes coughing, wheezing, and nasal inflammation. Longer-term, it can cause or increase the 

severity of asthma, which is widespread in communities of color. African-Americans are 

hospitalized for asthma at three times the rate of whites, and the death rate from asthma is 172% 

higher for African-Americans than for whites.x, 

*-11. Several of the toxins from power plant emissions are also tied to lung cancer. Despite lower 

smoking rates, African Americans are more likely to develop and die of lung cancer than White 

Americans." 

12. A 2010 report on power plant pollution by the Clean Air Task Force found that coal power plant 

pollution in the U.S. is responsible for 13,200 premature deaths and 9,700 hospitalizations each 

year, as well as over $100 billion in monetary damages."i 

i413. A Clean Air Task Force report on power plant pollution found that emissions from all power plants 

in the U.S. (both coal and other fuel sources) are responsible for 30,000 premature deaths, 7,000 

asthma-related emergency room visits, and 18,000 cases of chronic bronchitis each year. 

14. Asthma affects African Americans at a 36 percent higher rate of incidence than White Americans. 

African Americans die of asthma at twice the rate of White Americans. xiv 

These facts are especially important to know as you educate yourself and the community. It helps to give 

communities an understanding of how they are being affected by coal plant pollution. The disproportionate 

impact on low income communities and people of color, especially African Americans, is one that a 

community should not tolerate. Using this information can help paint the picture of what is happening in 

your community. 

NAACP Coal Blooded Action Toolkit 23 I 
Sample Letter to Decision Maker 

To the Honorable 

United States Senate 

Washington D.C. (ZIP CODE) 

Dear Senator (LAST NAME), 

On behalf of the NAACP's (insert state) State Conference/Chapter, it is our duty to act on behalf of our constituents 

by promoting the protection of civil rights. In your role as an elected official, we have this responsibility in common. 

Protection of those civil rights includes the right to breathe clean air. Nationwide, approximately 56% of people live in 

areas in violation of air pollution standards and for certain communities it is worse with an example of 71% of African 

Americans living in counties in violation of air pollution standards. The racial disparities in air quality lead to 

disparities in health and quality of life. Arsenic, dioxins, lead, mercury, and other pollutants are spewing from under 

regulated facilities causing direct harm in communities and putting other people at risk across the country. 

The NAACP and our partners recently released a report, Coal Blooded: Putting Profits Before People. The report 

ana - coa ire• power p an s .ss e • i • • • = - trrthstrVieThWolidfing emissions 

and their proximity to people. In [State], there are [#] coal fired power plants. According to our ranking, [#] of those 

plants [List names of failing coal plants] earned a grade of D or F because of their level of emissions and their close 

proximity to a large number of people. However, in a situation where communities are already exposed to these 

health harming conditions, there are those who seek to remove the safeguards we have to regulate the pollutants in 

the air. 

An NAACP member (insert state specific quote) expressed concern at a recent NAACP town hall meeting stating: 

"How can we expect to flourish and rebuild a healthy economy and our own people are not healthy? We as 

people have the right to life, a healthy life, a flourishing life. If we don't stand up for our environment, then 

we allow our right to life, and justice to be depleted and stripped away from us." 

Senator, please consider current and proposed regulations that reduce the pollution caused by coal fired power 

plants, like the Cross State Air Pollution Rule (CSAPR). Measures must be taken to tackle pollution in our state, but 

also pollution traveling across from other states' facilities like sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide. Implementing CSAPR 

can result in major pollution reduction which would save [#] lives in [insert state]. Other proposed standards for the 

Mercury and Air Toxics Rule, and an upcoming utility carbon rule would be instrumental in protecting our health and 

economy. Contrary to oft stated opinions, strengthening these safeguards and implementing alternative measures to 

energy production that generates pollution and harms communities will generate new jobs through implementation of 

energy efficiency and clean energy initiatives. But failure to strengthen these safeguards and shift to non-polluting 

practices will cost us the health and wellbeing of our communities. According to data from the EPA, [insert state] 

could also see a possible yield of [$ insert amount] in health benefits each year if these rules were implemented. 

Supporting such regulations would serve as an advantage for each and every [insert state: ex. Floridian]. 

Our state is depending on decision makers to consider the health of the people, and the environment upon which we 

all rely, and make responsible decisions. I strongly encourage you Senator/Representative/Council Member/Mayor 

(insert last name) to support clean air and regulations like the Cross-State Air Pollution Rule, the Mercury and Air 

Toxic Rules and other upcoming safeguards and help to protect us from harmful pollution. 

Sincerely, 

(Insert name/organization) 

NAACP Coal Blooded Action Toolkit 36 1Pdue 
campus partnership with your local college or university. Please see the section 

titled "Gathering Surveillance Data for Your Community" 

Effects of the Pollution, 

List all of the health problems that you believe the pollution has caused, such as asthma, 

bronchitis, etc. Note that without scientific data, you will be unable to persuasively conclude to 

other parties that the pollution has caused health problems. This is why having a collection of data 

that shows causation (see paragraph below) will be very important. In addition to your list of health 

problems, include other factors related to the treatment of the health problems, such as increased 

medical attention, amount paid in medical bills, emotional distress, etc. If the pollutant has caused 

physical changes in your neighborhood, such as smog and soot, also include this information. 

Physical effects of pollution can include loss of enjoyment or loss of use of the land or water being 

affected, loss of aesthetic (beauty) value in the neighborhood, decrease in property value, 

decrease in business foot traffic, etc. If you have observed any of these changes in your 

community, please note this information and provide it to your local counsel. For more information 

on how to obtain data such as property value, foot traffic and employment for your area, please see 

the resources page and the section titled, "Gathering Surveillance Data for Your Community".. 

✓ Data Showing Causation 

This is the most important of all the information needed prior to litigation and usually the most 

difficult to obtain. Your data must show that: 

• The amount of increased pollutants (including types of pollutants) 

• The effects of the pollutants were most likely caused by the coal plant. An example would 

include data showing the change in the amount of pollutants before and after a coal plant 

was built in your area. Health data is also very important. Having data showing an 

increased incidence of respiratory disease before and after a coal plant was built, or after a 

coal plant increased production will be extremely helpful. If data on pollutants and disease 

is not available prior to the coal plant being built or changes in production, then data 

comparing a similar area will help. For example, gathering data that show that your 

neighborhood, city or county has more incidents of disease and more pollutants compared 

to a similar neighborhood city or county (in size and population) is very helpful. Many 

community groups have partnered with their local health department or college/university 

to help gather this data. Please refer to the section entitled "Developing a Community 

Campus Partnership". 

Remedies 

Knowing what your group would like to have done to remedy the problem is key. Your group should 

be on the same page about the remedies. Your group should have a list of remedies and how 

much you are willing to compromise. Remedies fall into three main groups: 

▪ Pollution Controls 

• Compliance 

• Compensation 

While compliance would fall into federal standards that are already outlined, clean up and compensation 

can be more variable. Information on options for clean-up can be found in Appendix IV, "Harm 

Reduction/Pollution Controls". 

NAACP Coal Blooded Action Toolkit 64 
Models for Just Transition 

A Just Transition Model is an alternative plan to ensure that the closing of harmful facilities, such as coal 

burning power plants, includes a comprehensive strategy that maintains the rights of workers, the 

livelihoods of families, the economic wellbeing of communities, and public health. As we advance the "Coal 

Blooded Campaign" and consider community impacts, a key aim of the NAACP Environmental and Climate 

Justice Program is to create and support smart growth solutions for a more resilient economy and tie social, 

environmental and economic factors in with sustainability. 

Past successful model programs on advancing community economic development partnerships to 

transition from harmful practices to sustainable will guide our efforts. Below please find some examples of 

such models. Each initiative is different, but serves as an example for working toward environmental 

sustainability and stimulating the local economy. During this process the community is examining 

approaches that reduce pollution, incorporate energy efficiency, and invest in renewable energy and 

technology. 

You will explore ways that your community can both participate in production and consumption in the green 

economy. We define the green economy as consisting of four industries that provide products or services 

related to renewable energy (e.g. solar, wind, geothermal); green buildings and increased energy efficiency 

technology; clean transportation and fuels, agriculture and natural resource conservation; and pollution 

prevention or environmental cleanup.xxvim It is also important to consider models that invest in jobs that 

support living wages, that are localized, and that have a career ladder to move low income workers into 

higher skilled occupations. 

Examples of public and private partnerships that have promoted just transitions: 

Initiative One: E3: HELPING COMMUNITIES TRANSITION INTO A GREEN ECONOMY 

Location(s): Columbus, Ohio and San Antonio, Texas 

Partner agencies are also looking to implement the E3 Initiative in other states such as Georgia, Indiana, 

Louisiana, Michigan, Missouri, North Carolina, South Carolina, Washington and Ohio 

Description: The E3 stands for Economy, Energy, and Environment which is a coordinated federal and 

technical initiative that helps local communities adapt to their manufacturing base and excel in the new business 

era which is mainly focused on sustainability. E3 joins forces with local communities to help create a more 

efficient green work force, promote labor and growth through innovative technology, improve on the economy by 

creating more jobs in companies that are better for a global market, and reduces environmental impacts while 

gaining a competitive advantage. 

Employment Opportunities: The Columbus, Ohio initiative location has employed more than 1,000 local 

residents with six E3 manufacturers provided by the Dayton Industrial Assessment Center. 

Stakeholders: The E3 Initiative is partnered with five federal agencies Environmental Protection Agency's Green 

Suppliers Network, the Department of Commerce, the Department of Energy's Save Energy Now Initiative, the 

Small Business Administration, and Department of Labor.xxix 

Website: 

NAACP Coal Blooded Action Toolkit 71 1 
Opinion Editorial (Op- Ed) 

Using op-eds can be a great way to voice an opinion in a constructive way. Op-eds allow for a more 

personal way to connect with the community. The local newspaper is read by many and though this will 

definitely be putting oneself out there for criticism, it will also be a means of gaining support. People 

respond to op-eds in many ways. They can spark coffee shop conversations or discussion among small 

groups. An individual may even respond back with an op-ed agreeing or disagreeing on the issues 

highlighted in the op-ed. Provoking dialogue, is what makes an op-ed an effective tool when reaching out to 

the community. 

Sample Local Op — Ed 

COAL BLOODED: Putting Profits Before People 

As the NAACP's (INSERT TOWN/CITY) Branch President I am concerned about the protection of the rights of those 

here in (INSERT CITY/STATE). Our mission is to protect the civil rights, including the air we breathe. Air pollution is a 

civil rights issue and it must be addressed. Today we have cleaner forms of energy but no true investments have 

been made to recognize that reality. It troubles me that the air we breathe is full of pollutants like nitrogen dioxide, 

sulfur dioxide and particulate matter from emissions produced year after year from cars, fossil fuel burning power 

plants, industrial parks and more. Though we all have contributed to the pollution in [insert city/state], that does not 

mean we should let it go unaddressed. 

There are too many people I know that suffer from [insert: a possible health condition cancer, respiratory diseases: 

asthma, bronchitis, etc.] I ask myself, how is it an adult or child can develop serious respiratory problems who has not 

smoked, or been subjected to environments that would contribute to their health condition. Then I began to research 

possible environmental causes such as air pollution. Children are the most vulnerable to toxic chemical exposure and 

protecting the air they breathe will ensure that they can have a healthier childhood. Unfortunately, our air has been 

compromised already. 

Currently, federal regulations like the Air Toxics Rule and The Air Transport Rule that were put into place to reduce 

emissions in our air is now being attacked by those elected to represent us. Congress is considering Transparency in 

Regulatory Analysis of Impacts on the Nation which would derail these two regulations. This regulation would limit the 

EPA's ability to enforce clean air standards that protect us from significant amounts of harmful air pollution. 

The recent report Coal Blooded, on 378 coal fire power plants highlighted plants that are located near communities 

with low income residents and people of color. In that report it noted there are (# of failing plants) failing plants near 

or in my community, emitting levels of chemicals and heavy metals to which no family, community, or state should be 

exposed. We are all vulnerable. Sadly there are communities that are disproportionately exposed to harmful pollution. 

Communities in our state such as (insert town) that are low income will continue to be subjected to toxic air. There 

are communities in our nation that already suffer from high rates of chronic illnesses such as asthma, rare cancers, 

and even contaminated resources like our groundwater. It is places like (insert town) that need better and more 

comprehensive regulations to reduce the impact of pollution within our air and protect the health of our most 

vulnerable. 

Each resident in [insert state] will benefit from cleaner air. I encourage our [local official (s)] to support clean air and 

oppose regulations/permit like [insert regulation or proposed coal fired power plant] that puts our community at risk. 

NAACP Coal Blooded Action Toolkit 79IPaaa 
After the Interview and Follow-Up 

• Ask for a recording of the interview and a link to the online recording. 

• Ask the producer of the show for referrals to sister stations that would be willing to interview you. 

• Send a thank you note/card 2 days after the interview to the producers. 

Resources to help with the interview: 

Local radio station program(s) 

NAACP EC) Communication Coordinator 

410-580-5794 

Learn More: 

Sierra Student Coalition: Media Toolkit: 

NPR's living on earth: The website list several states that have environmental radio 

station programs 

14/8,41-FM Environmental Radio Show: 

NAACP Coal Blooded Action Toolkit 82 rage 
‘

• 

11 `3diAm54 RIM9A1,5 

APPENDIX V: Harm Reduction/Pollution Controls 

Please note that pollution controls are not an effective solution for eliminating pollution in communities. 

They only reduce pollution by a percentage. Though, in some cases, the percentage is significant, one 

wouldn't even want 10% of arsenic, lead, mercury, etc. to be emitted into the air we breathe, the water from 

which we fish, or the gardens that provide our dinner. Also, scrubbers, while somewhat protecting the air, 

concentrate more pollutants in the coal ash, which is the waste produced at the end of the coal burning 

process. Unfortunately this toxic coal ash is under-regulated and it has been documented to cause harm to 

surrounding communities through contaminating air and water. Harm Reduction/Pollution Control 

For coal plants, harm reduction in will either involve the installation of pollution control equipment in order to 

comply with emission guidelines, or the removal/containment of coal sludge produced by the coal plant 

*-Pollution Control Equipment 

Become familiar with pollution control technologies. You may be able to request specific technologies for 

the coal plant to adopt in the court complaint. Make sure to inquire with legal counsel about the kinds of 

pollution control technologies that can be requested or recommended. A short list of common technologies 

is listed below. 

Types of Pollution Control Technologies 

• Washing — A common and long held practice for many coal plants internationally; the method 

reduces the emissions of ash and sulfur dioxide. 

• Electrostatic Precipitators and Fabric Filters — Prevents up to 99% of fly ash, (residue from coal 

burning) from being emitted from coal burning gases. The filter electrically charges the fly ash and 

captures it on a collection plate. 

• Desulfurization — Also known as "scrubbers", this is a widely used process that removes up to 97% 

of sulfur dioxide from the atmosphere. This process applies only if the coal being burned has a high 

level of sulfur. To find out if the coal plant near you burns high levels of sulfur, see the "Resources" 

section. 

• Low Nitrogen Oxide Burners- These burners reduce nitrogen oxide emissions by up to 40% 

through manipulation of the way coal is burned. A common method, 75% of coal power plants use 

these burners. 

• Re-burning — This method, coupled with low nitrogen dioxide burners lower nitrogen oxide 

emissions by up to 70%. 

Removal/Containment of Coal Sludge 

Remediation of coal sludge will include either removal or containment or a mix of the two options. You and 

your community group may either be presented with a method or will want to advocate for a particular 

remediation method. Opt for a method that removes the most pollutants and is done in the most 

environmentally sound manner possible. For example, having bacterial microbes that can eat away at a 

pollutant is more environmentally sound than burning away the pollutant in the same area. If removal or 

even partial removal is not available, containment may be another solution. Note that containment carries 

the risk of failing to contain the coal sludge. 

(by qcor 

NAACP Coal Blo•Action Toakit 101 IP 3 ge