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Impact of Coal Mining Dust on Plants
Context:
A 2024 study in the Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences used satellite data to assess the impact of coal mining dust on plants in Jharsuguda.
More on News:
- The researchers used data from multiple satellites, including Landsat-8, Landsat-9, Sentinel-2, and PlanetScope, to estimate the amount of mining dust on leaves.
- Coal is essential for India’s electricity generation (around three-fourths) and is crucial in industries such as iron, steel, cement, and fertiliser. India is the second-largest coal producer and consumer in the world, following China.
Overview of Coal Mining
- Coal mining is the process of extracting coal from the ground, either from the surface or underground. It has been a significant source of energy for centuries, especially during the Industrial Revolution.
- There are two primary methods of coal mining:
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- Surface Mining: Used when coal is less than 200 feet underground. Large machines remove topsoil and overburden (layers of rock) to expose coal seams.
- Mountaintop Removal: A specific type of surface mining where the tops of mountains are removed to access coal.
- Underground Mining: Employed when coal is deeper than 200 feet, this method involves creating tunnels and shafts to reach the coal. Miners use elevators and small trains to access the coal, which can be thousands of feet deep.
- Surface Mining: Used when coal is less than 200 feet underground. Large machines remove topsoil and overburden (layers of rock) to expose coal seams.
Background
- In 1900, coal deposits were discovered in Jharsuguda, Odisha, while workers were developing rail networks for the British Indian government. By 2009, Jharsuguda was producing over 15 million tonnes of coal annually.
- Open-Cast Mining: Involves removing soil and rocks to access coal deposits. While cost-effective, open-cast mining generates more dust than underground mining.
- Pollution: Dust from mining activities affects air quality and vegetation by clogging plant stomata, reducing photosynthesis, and impairing temperature regulation.
Challenges in Assessing Dust Impact
- Dust from mining can spread up to 30 km from the site.
- Collecting dust-laden leaves over such a vast area is labour-intensive and time-consuming.
Key Findings:
- The study validated satellite data by collecting 300 leaf samples and measuring the dust weight difference. Satellite data was found to provide accurate estimates of dust on plant leaves, with validation from field samples.
- The study also used ECOSTRESS and MODIS data to assess plant temperature and water vapour release, key indicators of plant health.
- The researchers found that one gram of mining dust on leaves led to a reduction of 2-3 grams of carbon absorption per square meter, which could significantly contribute to global warming over time.
- Additionally, clogged stomata lead to reduced transpiration, which makes plants warmer, hinders photosynthesis and could cause stunted growth or death.
Implications
- The research demonstrates how satellite data can efficiently monitor dust pollution in large areas, helping governments identify affected regions and take preventive actions.
- Recommended measures include water sprays and dust barriers to protect vegetation and ecosystems from long-term damage.
