Emissions control is not the only issue that coal plants must contend with. The use of coal creates a number of byproducts (e.g. ash, slag, and sulfur) that must be processed and disposed of properly. Additionally, emissions equipment, such as wet scrubbers, also produces waste that must be addressed. Needless to say, the cost associated with disposal of these byproducts and wastes can be significant. Many power plants, however, have discovered they can recoup some of these costs through waste reutilization programs. Ultimately, waste reutilization offsets production costs and helps the environment by decreasing waste disposal.
Applying your research results, post a discussion thread that is no less than 350 words and no more than 500 words (not including the References list), addressing the following:
• Describe at least two processes by which coal byproducts are or can be reutilized.
• How does society benefit from these processes?
• What potential ramifications exist with each of these processes?
• How might waste reutilization affect the economic viability of coal as a source of energy?
