Health Effects of Coal Plant among Nearby Residents

Throughout the history of electricity generation in the Philippines, coal burning has been the most common and easiest source of light that produces a great impact on the human health. The fact that it integrates unusual health threats to humankind has been ignored and is still in need of proper medical and psychological attention. This study determined the health effects of coal plant among nearby residents in Batangas. Specifically, it determined the awareness of residents in the effects of coal plant. It identified the effects relative to health status; and finally, reviewed the existing policy and enhance/propose revision based on the results. In this study, the researchers used mixed method. Studies that are products of the pragmatist paradigm and that combine the qualitative and quantitative approaches within different phases of the research process. With that the health hazards and poor air quality caused by the coal plant affects some of the residents around it. Proximity to the source of pollution and smouldering combustion typical of coal mine fires increase the risk of community exposure to high concentrations of known toxins such as aerosolised particles, and products of incomplete combustion. Long-term exposure with the said chemicals could lead to certain diseases. Most of the residents near coal plant are moderately aware that they suffer from different illnesses, but it does not mean that it is totally due to exposure to coal plant. Residents near coal plant can affect their health status physically and psychologically, whereas other residents do not claim that it is due to coal plant. There are parts of the policy which are not strictly implemented. Review and enhancement of the existing policies should be made because there are some laws that were not properly and effectively implemented based on the interview with the residents living near coal plant

Keywords – Health Effects, Coal Plant, Nearby Residents