Mountaintop Removal and Job Creation: Exploring the Relationship Using Spatial Regression

This project focused on a new and increasingly contested method of coal extraction, mountaintop removal (MTR), and its effects on central Appalachian residents' quality of life vis-a-vis increased employment. Attention is given to central Appalachia because its fossil fuel landscapes have undergone major changes as a result of two interrelated forces: (1) a national push for energy independence that led to the region's all-time high production of coal (supplying over half of the nation's coal); and (2) changes in mining technology that allowed for increased production. Such transitions have led to widespread use of MTR mining, a method that entails removal of extensive land area to expose coal seams. Although policymakers are aware of the negative environmental effects of MTR, its continued use is primarily rationalized using the argument that it contributes to local economies, especially job retention and development. MTR proponents argue that, without MTR, other regions and countries more competitively extract coal. Opponents counter that MTR fails to substantially contribute to employment due to efficiencies in mechanization. This study used socio-spatial analysis to understand MTR's impact on employment in southern West Virginia populated places. We integrated coal mining permit boundaries with employment indicators obtained from the U.S. Census. Contrary to pro-MTR arguments, we found no supporting evidence suggesting MTR contributed positively to nearby communities' employment. Implications for economic development are discussed.