Studies
Mortality in Appalachian Coal Mining Regions: The Value of Statistical Life Lost
Saturday, June 13th, 2009
An analysis of the value of statistical life lost showed that the costs associated with coal mining in Appalachia continue to exceed the economic benefits gained from mining. The authors found that “age-adjusted mortality rates were higher every year from 1979 – 2005 in Appalachian coal mining areas compared with other areas of Appalachia or the nation.” Illnesses seen in coal mining areas of Appalachia “are consistent with a hypothesis of exposure to water and air pollution from mining activities.”
Hendryx, M. (2009) “Mortality in Appalachian Coal Mining Regions: The Value of Statistical Life Lost.” Public Health Reports. 124: 541-50
