Renewable sources of energy need in U.S.

I am writing in response to Mr. Heraper’s letter regarding coal, printed on Sept. 24.

I would first like to address Mr. Heraper’s concern that I have “never had a chemistry course.” Rest assured that I have received a very thorough education in chemistry through the eight chemistry classes that I passed with flying colors throughout my academic training; from high school to earning my doctoral degree in marine science.

While Mr. Heraper insists that coal is an “inert” compound that will have no adverse effects on the water quality of Lake Pend Oreille if “a train car dumps a load,” I have to disagree. The EPA even recognizes that heavy metals can be flushed from coal upon exposure to water. This begins with the oxidation of mineral pyrite (FeS2), a component of coal, when it is exposed to oxygen through mining. When water enters the equation, sulfuric acid and dissolved iron are produced. The acid can then leach heavy metals from the coal including mercury, lead and arsenic.

These toxic byproducts can have serious impacts on the water quality of Lake Pend Oreille that can result in the disruption of plant and animal species (including recovering fish populations), contaminated drinking water and degradation of recreational activities and tourism.

I agree that coal has played a major role in creating the energy that we rely on in our daily lives and we have all benefited from it. But we can do better and it’s time to leave the coal in the ground where it belongs. It’s time to focus on clean, renewable sources of energy that also produce jobs, but do not pollute our air and water.

SHANNON WILLIAMSON

Sandpoint