Various regulations and policies are in place to mitigate the environmental impacts of coal extraction. These include laws requiring companies to restore mined land to its original state, regulations limiting emissions of pollutants, and policies promoting the use of cleaner technologies. For instance, in many countries, coal-fired power plants must adhere to strict emission standards to reduce the release of harmful pollutants like sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulates. Additionally, mining companies are often required to develop and implement plans for managing and mitigating the environmental impacts of their activities, including habitat preservation and water protection.

Water pollution from coal extraction occurs due to the runoff of chemicals and heavy metals, and the discharge of waste into water bodies. Surface mining, especially, exposes minerals and toxins previously buried underground. When it rains, these substances can leach into groundwater or flow into rivers and lakes, leading to acid mine drainage and contaminating water supplies. To manage this, regulations require the treatment of wastewater and runoff. Techniques like sedimentation ponds and constructed wetlands are used to capture and treat contaminated water, removing harmful substances before the water is released back into the environment.

Several technologies are employed to reduce emissions during coal combustion. Flue gas desulphurisation systems are used to remove sulphur dioxide emissions, significantly reducing the occurrence of acid rain. Electrostatic precipitators and fabric filters can capture particulate matter, preventing it from being released into the atmosphere. Low-NOx burners and selective catalytic reduction systems are effective in reducing nitrogen oxide emissions, mitigating the formation of smog. These technologies, when employed effectively, can significantly reduce the environmental impact of coal combustion, although they do not address the issue of carbon dioxide emissions and climate change.

Coal mining, particularly surface mining, leads to significant habitat destruction and fragmentation, directly impacting biodiversity. The removal of vegetation and topsoil, and alterations to the landscape, disrupt ecosystems and can lead to the loss of plant and animal species. Aquatic ecosystems are also affected due to sedimentation and chemical runoff, leading to water pollution, loss of aquatic life, and the disruption of food chains. Mitigating these impacts requires stringent environmental regulations, habitat restoration efforts, and the adoption of mining practices that are less disruptive to ecosystems and biodiversity.

Coal extraction can have both positive and negative impacts on local communities. On the positive side, it creates employment opportunities and stimulates economic growth in coal-rich areas. However, the environmental degradation associated with mining activities often leads to health and safety concerns. Air and water pollution from coal extraction and processing can exacerbate respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Noise and landscape alterations affect the quality of life. Moreover, coal mining can lead to land subsidence, causing structural damage to buildings and infrastructure, and impacting property values.