Role of coal: problems and policies

Changes in coal development are both favorable and disruptive, as in the increasing tendency for government intervention. The coal industry's assets include a government commitment to coal utilization, although conflicting policies make it difficult to increase production and consumption. While coal is the logical resource to emphasize on the basis of reserves and cost advantages, major problems remain for preserving air quality standards, present restrictions on mining leases on western lands, a downward trend in productivity, labor uncertainties, pressures to enforce horizontal divestiture, and others. A number of firms have, nevertheless, invested in coal companies after assessing the pros and cons with the expectation of making a profit. 18 references and footnotes.