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Why can coal burning cause poor air quality in cities such as Ulaanbaatar?

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coal utilization Cross-regenerative coke oven. (A) Cross section, showing the alternating arrangement of flue walls and ovens; (B) longitudinal section, showing (left) a series of combustion flues in a single flue wall and (right) part of a long, slotlike oven.

In densely populated cities like Ulaanbaatar, the direct burning of coal for heating is a primary cause of unhealthy air quality. When coal is burned, it releases significant quantities of particulate matter, as well as sulfur and nitrogen oxides.1

These emissions contribute to the formation of sulfurous smog, a type of air pollution characterized by high concentrations of sulfur oxides and suspended particles. This pollution is particularly problematic in regions where emission-control technologies—such as electrostatic precipitators or scrubbers—are less common. Furthermore, the incomplete combustion of coal can release various carcinogenic compounds into the atmosphere.21

The resulting air pollution poses serious risks to human health, including respiratory and cardiovascular disease, and is considered one of the leading environmental health risks globally. Ethical responsibility demands that we prioritize the health and safety of urban populations by transitioning toward cleaner, more efficient energy alternatives to mitigate these severe impacts.31