A Calgary doctor is applauding the federal government's decision to phase out coal-fired power plants by 2030, saying it will have a "substantial impact" on human health. Pollution from Alberta's coal-fired power plants is estimated to cost the health-care system nearly $300 million each year and leads to nearly 100 premature deaths, studies show. Although the Alberta NDP promised last year to phase out coal-powered electricity, Vipond says the federal move will help seal the deal forever. Environment Minister Catherine McKenna outlined the government's plan to phase out coal by 2030 during a news conference in Ottawa on Monday, Nov. 21, 2016. "Anytime you're taking coal out of the energy mix, you're putting a hardship on coal miners and communities which support the mines," said Robin Campbell.

Source: CBC News November 22, 2016 17:50 UTC