Mountaintop Removal Mining

Mountaintop removal coal mining (MTR) is a relatively new type of coal mining that involves clear cutting native hardwood forests, using dynamite to blast away 800-1000 feet of mountaintop, and then dumping the debris into nearby valleys forever burying streams. Meanwhile, communities near these mining sites are forced to contend with; continual blasting from mining operations that can take place up to 300 feet from their homes and operate 24 hours/day, air pollution from dust and debris, and the threat of floods that have left hundreds dead and thousands homeless. In these communities, where homes are usually the only asset folks have, mining operations have damaged homes beyond repair and decreased property values up to 90%. [Appalachian Voices]

The spiritual implications are clear! If the Earth is the Lord's (Psalm 24:1), then this destructive mining method that leaves the affected areas forever ruined is foremost an assault upon the work of the Creator. The God of justice is furthermore offended in the devastated lives of humans and their communities. Finally, as so often happens with this type of predacious mining, government is often corrupted as powerful coal interests sway them from acting in the public interest.

Mountaintop Removal mining cannot square with the biblical mandate of human dominion, which means to enhance creation and to protect it. Quite contrary, the dominion is perverted into domination and exploitation, to plunder the mountains for a quick profit.

Christians For The Mountains calls upon Christian people, their churches, and indeed all people of conscience to advocate for public policies and personal responsibilities that do away with the destructive practice of Mountaintop Removal mining.

For more information on Mountaintop Removal mining, go to our links. Below are some photos., courtesy Viv Stockman

 

[above] Kayford Mountain in West Virginia

 

[Above] Kayford Mountain dragline

[Above] Brushy Fork impoundment

[Above] See small community at base.

[Above] Overloaded coal trucks are dangerous. This truck might weigh 100 tons.