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Using Britain's Resources Responsibly

Coal production is not just a matter of extracting valuable mineral reserves as efficiently as possible but also involves improving land and putting back something into the community. Liaison Committees are formed with representatives from local authorities and neighbouring residents to ensure harmonious relationships throughout the life of a site.

We also work closely with the National Rivers Authority to install effective surface water drainage systems which will safeguard the purity of local water courses.

Our members adopt procedures to minimise the impact of their work. These include the construction of safe, clean access links if rail transport is impractical. Internal haul roads are damped continuously to reduce dust, and all vehicles leaving the site must pass through wheel washing systems. In addition all loaded coal lorries must be sheeted to prevent nuisance from spillage.

The Confederation advises on the employment of wildlife experts so that the relocation and subsequent re-instatement of a natural habitat is properly handled. Rare species will be carefully removed to another appropriate site and re-introduced after careful restoration.

Great care is taken when removing soils and subsoils to ensure that they are in optimum condition when the time comes to restore the site. Landscaped baffles are constructed from soils removed during the initial stages of the operations, to reduce noise emission and visual impact.
As well as playing a leading role in local communities by providing jobs, Confederation members often become intimately involved in supporting local activities such as sports clubs or educational and youth projects. They also make a major contribution to the wealth and prosperity of the whole country.
£2.5 billion investment in plant
 Coalpro members are responsible for a massive £2.5 billion investment in plant. They provide jobs for around 20,000 people within the industry, and probably as many again in support and ancillary trades.
18,000,000 tonnes of high grade coal

This manpower and machinery extracts more than 26 million tonnes of high grade coal every year - 85% of the United Kingdom's coal output. It generates some 68 TWh of electricity, or 18% of our total power generation.

 Supplying the total needs of Greater London

The coal is cleaned and lifted using modern extraction machinery, and the site is usually restored progressively. Extreme care is again employed when replacing soils and subsoils. Seeding, tree planting, cultivation and the creation of areas of special interest can then get underway. Site aftercare extends for up to five years or longer.

Additionally, it concerns itself with all aspects of employee safety, health and welfare; seeking to set the highest standards in both surface and underground coal extraction.

Our membership can reclaim previously abandoned coal from derelict land.  After extraction the land is beneficially reinstated.  Such changes often create significant improvements without cost to the taxpayer.  They include new roads; leisure facilities; wildlife habitats; or new housing.

The environment committee of the Confederation will play a key roll in improving standards, whilst promoting the advantages of this country's indigenous coal, and the employment it provides. The Confederation of UK Coal Producers aims to achieve a greater understanding between its members, the power generators, central government and local authorities.



Top: A South Wales site restored for agriculture
Bottom: The inset shows the same view prior to mining




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