Need a tutorial on the world of coal, how it is mined and how it is used? National Geographic has one in their resources section that is useful.
It is written in an accessible way that is great for the layperson and includes several photos. Much to my surprise, the information is presented in a non-sentimental and non-biased way. It includes how coal is created, types of coal, what it is all used for, various means of extraction, hazards to human life and the environmental havoc it creates.
They summarize it this way:
Coal is one of the most controversial energy sources in the world. The advantages of coal mining are economically and socially significant. However, mining devastates the environment: air, land and water.
Cheers to National Geographic for their quality content.
