- Preventing the emissions of 150 cars for a full year
- Planting 367 acres of trees
- Saving 64,000 gallons of gasoline
- Saving $160,000 in energy costs
Even though we may not always see it, the energy we use contributes significantly to environmental degradation. By following the simple tips on this site and the associated links, we can help to reduce the costs associated with energy consumption and conserve our environment.
To see energy statistics from New York State, click here (pdf).
Environmental Impact of Coal-Fired Power Plants
Coal-fired power plants produce much of Western New York’s electricity. Coal is burned to generate steam. The steam powers the turbines that produce electricity. Unfortunately, there are various adverse environmental impacts that result from this process. They include:
1. Air Pollution
Coal burning produces several air pollutants. Click here to learn more about air pollution.
2. Acid Rain
Air pollutants also increase the production of acid rain. Click here to learn more.
3. Fly Ash Disposal
Coal burning produces fly ash, which is unsuitable for general placement in landfills due to the high concentration of many metals. Click here to learn more about fly ash.
If the University of Vermont was to put 8,000 of their computers in sleep mode, the university could save 1.6 million kWh every year. That amount of energy savings is equal to: