It is our intent to keep you and your colleagues abreast of pertinent developments within the coal industry on a frequent basis. 

Accordingly, Coal Forum Headlines is a compilation of daily articles and stories about coal from around the region and the world. Upon reviewing this news stream, if you have suggestions to improve it or make it more useful please let us know.  And lastly, please share this with your colleagues and if they have an interest simply have them visit here to receive future editions directly.

UMWA demands immediate unfreezing of federal silica-dust rule
United Mine Workers of America
The UMWA is calling for immediate implementation of stronger federal limits on miners’ exposure to respirable crystalline silica. The union cites sharply elevated black-lung rates in Central Appalachia and argues that further delay threatens miners in West Virginia and neighboring states.

UMWA warns fast-track Social Security changes would burden coal miners
United Mine Workers of America
The UMWA says proposals to raise the Social Security retirement age would disproportionately affect coal miners whose physically demanding careers often limit how long they can safely remain on the job. The union is urging lawmakers to protect earned retirement benefits.

Owensboro residents seek answers on coal-to-gas study at municipal power plant
WEHT/WTVW
Owensboro Municipal Utilities is studying whether the Elmer Smith Station could be converted from coal to natural gas. Residents are asking officials to clarify the study’s purpose, costs and potential effect on the community’s power supply.

New partner joins North Dakota coal-plant carbon-capture project
WDAY Radio
A new project partner has joined plans for a carbon-capture facility at the Milton R. Young Station in North Dakota. Developers aim to capture approximately five million tons of carbon dioxide annually while extending the role of coal-fired generation.

Global pipeline of proposed coal-mine capacity rises 11 percent
Global Energy Monitor
The worldwide pipeline of proposed coal-mining capacity increased 11 percent in 2025 to roughly 2.5 billion metric tons per year, according to the Global Coal Mine Tracker. The report contrasts the growth in proposals with weaker additions of new operating capacity.

New modelling examines transition options for South Africa’s Secunda coal-to-liquids complex
Green Building Africa
New analysis examines transition pathways for Sasol’s Secunda coal-to-liquids complex and the implications for South Africa’s fuel supply. The facility remains a major industrial employer and producer while also accounting for a substantial share of national emissions.

UAE investment deal signals new foreign interest in Kazakhstan’s coal sector
The Astana Times
A United Arab Emirates company has secured a long-term agreement tied to Kazakhstan’s coal industry. The transaction highlights continued foreign investment interest in the country’s reserves, export potential and industrial energy demand.