Electric power systems consist of generation plants of different energy sources, transmission networks, and distribution lines. Each of these components can have environmental impacts at multiple stages of their development and use including in their construction, during the generation of electricity, and in their decommissioning and disposal. These impacts can be split into operational impacts (fuel sourcing, global atmospheric and localized pollution) and construction impacts (manufacturing, installation, decommissioning, and disposal). All forms of electricity generation have some form of environmental impact,[1] but coal-fired power is the dirtiest.[2][3][4] This page is organized by energy source and includes impacts such as water usage, emissions, local pollution, and wildlife displacement.
- ^ "environmental impact of energy — European Environment Agency". www.eea.europa.eu. Retrieved 28 October 2021.
- ^ "What are the safest and cleanest sources of energy?". Our World in Data. Retrieved 17 February 2023.
- ^ "Coal - Fuels & Technologies". IEA. Retrieved 17 February 2023.
- ^ "Coal Was Meant to Be History. Instead, Its Use Is Soaring". Bloomberg.com. 4 November 2022. Retrieved 17 February 2023.