TED: The human cost of coal mining in China | Xiaojun "Tom" Wang

Xiaojun Wong shares a personal narrative about the impact of coal mining in Shanxi, China. He discusses the cultural significance of Tomb Sweeping Day, the environmental and personal toll of coal mining, and the province's role in China's energy supply. Wong highlights the need for a transition to renewable energy and the preservation of Shanxi's cultural heritage. He calls for coordinated efforts to support Shanxi's shift away from coal dependency, emphasizing the importance of a clean and sustainable future.

What is the primary reason for the environmental degradation in Liu Liang?

• Overpopulation

• Deforestation

• Coal mining

• Industrial pollution

What was the speaker's grandfather's expectation for their career?

• To become a teacher

• To become a soldier

• To become a journalist

• To become a coal miner

What tragic event happened to the speaker's cousin?

• He became a teacher

• He moved to another province

• He was injured in a coal mine accident

• He became a journalist

What is Shanxi's role in China's coal industry?

• The 'eldest coal brother'

• A coal-free province

• The largest coal importer

• A minor coal producer

What natural disaster affected Shanxi in October 2021?

• Earthquake

• Heavy rainstorm

• Drought

• Tornado

What are China's carbon targets for 2030 and 2060?

• Emission peak by 2025 and carbon neutrality by 2050

• Carbon neutrality by 2025 and emission peak by 2050

• Emission peak by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2060

• Carbon neutrality by 2030 and emission peak by 2060

What is the main challenge for Shanxi in transitioning to a cleaner economy?

• Overreliance on agriculture

• Lack of cultural heritage

• Insufficient government support

• Lack of coal resources

What is one of Shanxi's cultural treasures mentioned by the speaker?

• The Summer Palace

• Ancient tombs older than the Terracotta Warriors

• The Forbidden City

• The Great Wall

What does the speaker suggest as a potential economic revival strategy for Shanxi?

• Increasing coal production

• Promoting tourism and cultural preservation

• Developing new industries

• Expanding agricultural exports

What does the speaker hope for the future of Shanxi?

• Continued reliance on coal

• A clean and sustainable future

• Increased industrialization

• Isolation from other provinces