Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the serious issue of illegal dumping and inadequate management of coal gangue in Shanxi Province, posing significant risks to ecological safety and public health [3][24][35]. Group 1: Environmental Impact - Coal gangue, a solid waste produced during coal mining and washing, is increasingly being dumped improperly, threatening ecological safety and public health [3]. - In villages near coal gangue dumping sites, residents report severe dust pollution and deteriorating water quality, forcing them to rely on filtered water [6][7]. - The lack of effective ecological protection measures at coal gangue sites has led to visible pollution in nearby water bodies, with harmful substances potentially entering the water supply [12][19]. Group 2: Regulatory Challenges - Despite existing regulations, companies continue to violate environmental standards, leading to repeated administrative penalties for inadequate dust control and improper waste management [10][32]. - The article notes that local environmental departments acknowledge the pollution issues but struggle to find effective solutions due to historical negligence and lack of funding [21][19]. Group 3: Industry Context - Shanxi Province, a major coal-producing area, faces immense pressure from coal gangue management, with coal gangue typically accounting for over 10% of coal production [35]. - The province has initiated a solid waste pollution prevention action plan, focusing on the large quantities of coal gangue and other industrial solid wastes generated [37]. - As of 2024, China has over 60 billion tons of coal gangue, with annual increases of 500 million to 800 million tons, indicating a growing challenge for both local and national environmental management [37].