These include the effects of obtaining the fuels from mines, using the fuels, and dealing with the wastes following use of the fuel.
At a uranium mine, ordinary operating procedures normally ensure that there is no significant water or air pollution. The environmental effect of coal mining today is also small except that more extensive areas are often disturbed and may require subsequent rehabilitation, and in certain situations of geology and climate, acid mine drainage due to oxidation of sulfur can be a problem.