Although the paper focuses on past (since 1920) and current coal use and pollutant emissions in the U.S., it also discusses where the U.S. may be going in terms of pollutant emissions over the next several decades. Conclusions of the look at coal use include the fact that increasing coal use is vital to the economic well being of the U.S. With proper application of controls, coal use can be increased as projected without unacceptable levels of sulfur and nitrogen oxides, particulate, and nitrous oxide. However, the forecast is bleaker for carbon dioxide and its projected impact on global warming. Barring a technology breakthrough of major proportions (e.g., successful commercialization of nuclear fusion or solar electric generation), the best that can be envisioned is to moderate carbon dioxide emissions from the combustion of coal and other fuels through conservation.