Coal-Fired Plants Blamed for Tree Deaths

Chemicals Released

• Sulfur dioxide is one of the major components found in acid rain and is one of the main chemicals released by coal-fired power plants without proper cleaning techniques to reduce emissions. The released chemicals are harmful to air, water and other parts of the ecosystem, including trees and other vegetation. Owners of coal-fired power plants in Texas have argued that no evidence supports sulfur dioxide poisoning of trees or that sulfur dioxide is responsible for tree deaths, according to a 2010 Associated Press article. Sulfur dioxide is considered a toxic gas, however, and acid rain is harmful to trees and other vegetation.

Nearby Trees Affected

• In some states, it has been observed that forested areas in close proximity to coal-fired power plants contain many dead or dying trees. Symptoms seem to improve and trees retain their vigor farther from the power plants. Trees are some of the first forms of vegetation to be affected by pollution due to their height; they are followed by plants beneath their canopies. Coal-fired power plants from Texas to Georgia have been blamed for the deaths of trees in close proximity to a coal-fired power plant.

Symptoms Exhibited

• Ranchers, farmers and orchard owners have reported trees' symptoms that they believe result from sulfur dioxide poisoning. Orchard owners in Albany, Georgia, reached an out-of-court settlement due to pecan tree loss from sulfur dioxide emissions. The symptoms displayed include peeling bark, leaves with brown spots that eventually turn gray and die, premature leaf loss, brittle branches, branch loss and bitter fruit of poor quality. As affected trees lose vigor and health, their attacks by pests and diseases increase.

Emissions to Be Reduced

• Stricter regulations require coal-fired power plants to have equipment that reduces their emissions, including their sulfur dioxide emissions. Trees need clean air and water for healthy growth. Reducing air pollution also reduces the instance of acid rain and improves the health of trees and other vegetation.