By Brigitte Rodriguez, Publishing Associate: Researcher and Writer at Save the Water™ | May 31, 2026

Edited by Rory Dickinson, Publishing Associate: Editor at Save the Water™

Coal ash pollution is a serious and constant threat to ecosystems such as rivers and lakes. It can contaminate groundwater with heavy metals, which puts drinking water supplies at risk. Coal-fired power plants strive to generate more energy; however, they often fail to manage coal ash.

What is coal ash?

Coal ash is a byproduct of coal combustion. Demand for this energy source continues to grow. However, incorrect practices in the storage of coal ash lead to environmental and public health problems. This waste contains the following heavy metals:

• Cadmium
• Chromium
• Lead
• Radioactive elements

These heavy metals can enter the waterways, mixing with water and negatively affecting the aquatic ecosystem.

Coal ash contaminates water

Coal ash pollution occurs when coal combustion residues from power plants are not managed properly and end up in water bodies or on the ground. These residues contain heavy metals and toxic substances that can contaminate drinking water and negatively impact the environment

Prolonged exposure to these pollutants can cause serious health problems, such as respiratory diseases and various types of cancer. Therefore, coal ash pollution poses a significant risk to both ecosystems and people.

There have been recent concerns regarding coal-fired power plants operating in the state of Iowa. There are 43 coal ash sites regulated by the Coal Combustion Residues (CCR) regulations, which govern disposal sites. However, groundwater studies revealed that 9 of these landfills exceeded the pollution limits for coal ash. This raised concerns about potential risks to local communities and water resources.

EPA´s perspective

On April 9, 2026, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) published a proposal for regulations on coal combustion waste.

Some of the changes included in the proposal are:

• The closure of old and inactive coal storage facilities.
• Extended deadlines for monitoring groundwater near coal ash landfills.
• The introduction of reuse guidelines, such as the use of coal ash in cement manufacturing. The production of gypsum board made from coal ash is also encouraged to boost the economy; these products are not subject to federal regulations.

Looking ahead

Coal ash contamination remains one of the most persistent threats to drinking water.  Many initiatives are underway to clean up this waste. Still, even public utilities continue to resist moving their coal ash to storage facilities, thereby endangering public health.

Therefore, with the support of regulations and government agencies, it is necessary to enforce established standards, ensure environmental safety, and prevent water pollution.

Furthermore, it would be better to explore cleaner energy sources, such as solar and wind power, which are less harmful to the environment and people.

‍