Coal-fired power plants contribute substantially to environmental mercury pollution. The problem with coal is that although it contains only small amounts of mercury, it is burned in very large quantities. The most-affected communities tend to live near power plants, and are often marginalized or economically disadvantaged groups. In April 2025, the US administration granted nearly 70 coal plants two-year waivers to exceed air pollution limits. The NRDC goes further, citing reductions of up to 90% in coal plants as a result of stricter Biden-era rules.

Source: Dhaka Tribune February 21, 2026 13:48 UTC