Coal is a fossil fuel valued for its high energy value relative to its weight. Having a net heating value of 26 million BTU/ton, it is the most efficient fuel that is currently readily available for use in heavy industry. This makes coal an extremely valuable commodity to the nations that are able to produce it. However, coal has a dark side.
There are the obvious environmental side effects from the burning and mining of coal, and then you must consider the physical dangers to the miners themselves. Since 1900 more than 100,000 people have lost their lives while mining coal. While the number of miners who have lost their lives has significantly decreased in recent years, mine safety is still a matter of concern. The following are only some of the major disasters that have happened in the 21st century:
Brookwood No. 5 Mine – September 23, 2001 – 13 miners killed
Sago Mine – January 2, 2006 – 12 miners killed
Darby Mine No. 1 – May 20, 2006 – 5 miners killed
Crandall Canyon Mine – August 6, 2007 – 6 miners killed
Upper Big Branch Mine – April 5, 2010 – 29 miners killed
Pike River Mine – November 19, 2010 – 29 miners killed
In addition to these deaths, there have been a great number of injuries ranging from cuts to pneumoconiosis (black lung) to paralysis. These statistics make coal mining one of the most dangerous jobs around the world, but yet many people take the chance anyway in hopes of providing for their families. This cache is dedicated to those brave souls, both living and deceased. Feel free to leave personal accounts of how coal mining has affected you in your log.
The cache is a small container large enough for small trade items, but bring your own writing utensil.
Congratulations to Fishercacher on the FTF!