These fuels are easier to use than solid coal and can power vehicles. However, liquid and gaseous fuels made from coal are currently more expensive than oil and natural gas. Disadvantages of coal Burning coal creates carbon dioxide, which contributes to global warming. Burning coal contributes to acid precipitation, which damages forests, lakes and soils. Underground mining is dangerous work.
Mining coal disrupts the land and often pollutes streams.
Coal for electrical generators must be purchased at a cost of many millions of dollars a year. Coal is a nonrenewable resource and will eventually run out. Energy and other fuels are needed to move the coal from the mine to the generator.