FutureCoal Ltd, the Global Alliance for Sustainable Coal, said it welcomes President-elect Trump’s recent reaffirmation of his commitment to “clean coal,” which aligns closely with FutureCoal’s Sustainable Coal Stewardship roadmap. This bold vision underscores coal’s enduring role in driving economic growth, energy security, and environmental responsibility.
“Coal is more than energy—it’s a strategic asset,” said Michelle Manook, CEO of FutureCoal. “Our Sustainable Coal Stewardship roadmap highlights proven technologies like high efficiency low emissions (HELE), coal gasification, coal co-firing with biomass, and others that can cut emissions by up to 99%, setting a global benchmark for a low-emission, high-value coal future.”
Countries like India and China have embraced coal as a cornerstone of economic growth, self-reliance, and energy security, advancing technologies to mitigate emissions. With its vast coal reserves of more than 400 years and history of innovation, the U.S. is uniquely positioned to lead the way, surpassing these nations through investment in coal innovation technologies and cutting-edge research.
“American universities and research centers are unlocking coal’s potential beyond energy. Innovations such as converting coal waste and ash into high-value products—including materials for electric vehicle batteries, defense systems, and advanced technologies like graphene and carbon fiber—are poised to transform key industries,” Manook said. “However, to match or surpass India and China, aligned government and investment policies are essential to drive coal innovation and sustainability.”
FutureCoal calls for a united effort across the American coal value chain to promote pragmatic policies that recognize coal’s role in securing a sustainable and prosperous future.
“In a world, where coal has been demonized, “clean coal” must humanize this debate. For our part, FutureCoal and the American coal value chain need to continue to champion for a reality-based responsible conversation about coal,” Manook said. “We look forward to collaborating with the administration to build a prosperous, sustainable future that maximizes coal’s full potential.”
