Answer: True. The toxic chemicals present in coal ash can leach into streams, lakes, and groundwater, contaminating the water and ultimately being absorbed by plants and fish. When humans and animals consume these contaminated plants and fish, it can have severe consequences on their health.
Coal ash is the waste product produced from the burning of coal for energy generation. This waste product contains a number of toxic chemicals, including mercury, selenium, and arsenic. When coal ash is not properly stored or disposed of, it can infiltrate into streams, lakes, and groundwater, contaminating the water and ultimately being absorbed by plants and fish.
Once these toxic chemicals are absorbed by plants and fish, they can have severe consequences on the health of humans and animals that consume them. Mercury, for example, is a neurotoxin that can cause brain and nervous system damage, especially in developing fetuses and young children. Selenium toxicity can cause hair and nail loss, damage to the liver and kidneys, and even death in severe cases. Arsenic is a carcinogen that can cause cancer in humans, as well as skin lesions, cardiovascular disease, and other health problems.
The contamination of water sources by coal ash is a serious environmental and public health concern, especially in areas where coal-fired power plants are prevalent. Proper storage and disposal of coal ash is crucial in preventing the spread of these toxic chemicals and protecting the health of humans and wildlife.