Most of our electricity comes from coal, nuclear, and other fossil fuels power plants. Producing energy from these resources takes a severe toll on our environment, polluting our air, land and water. Carbon dioxide is released into the atmosphere when fossil fuels are burned. Currently, carbon dioxide emissions from coal and gas power plants are about 1 ton per person each year.
Carbon dioxide is a major global warming gas.
Global warming is a serious environmental threat that may contribute to coastal flooding, more frequent and extreme heat waves, more intense droughts, an increase in the number of severe storms, and the increased spread of infectious diseases. Acid rain damages the foliage of forests, crops, and other plants, and eventually can kill the plants. Acidification also alters the chemistry of soil, releasing harmful metals into rainwater runoff and groundwater. Sulfur dioxide also accelerates the decay of stone and paint, damaging many buildings and monuments. Mercury can circulate in the air for up to one year and can be transported thousands of miles from its source.