With the U.S. government’s energy policies leaning further toward the use of “clean coal”, the time has come to ask, exactly how clean is it? What effects does coal extraction have on the communities that surround it, and do the benefits outweigh the costs? America has always prided itself on the innovation of its scientists, but now it seems that the support they’re getting may be encouraging them to look backwards rather than to the future. In this Link TV special we are joined by filmmaker David Novack, whose documentary Burning the Future: Coal in America looks at the coal industry’s effect on West Virginia. Novack will also present a sneak preview of the film.

Burning the Future: Coal in America
In Burning the Future, writer/director David Novack examines the explosive forces that have set in motion a groundswell of conflict between the coal industry and residents of West Virginia. Confronted by an emerging coal-based U.S. energy policy, local activists watch the nation praise coal without regard to the devastation caused by its extraction. Faced with toxic ground water, the obliteration of 1.4 million acres of mountains, and a government that appeases industry, The film’s heroes demonstrate a strength of purpose and character in their improbable fight to arouse the nation's help in protecting their mountains, saving their families, and preserving their way of life.

LEARN MORE:
The Burning the Future website features links to articles and calls to action.

Read Variety's review. 

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