A report released by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency declares coal ash safe for reuse in certain construction materials - providing coal industry supporters a measure of hope as the agency prepares to issue its first-ever regulations on the substance.

The EPA has for some time now been considering classifying coal ash - a byproduct of burning coal to produce electricity - as a hazardous material, citing contaminants such as mercury, arsenic and cadmium. Earlier this month, it announced a self-imposed deadline of Dec. 19 to take action.

Coal ash recently drew attention when 82,000 tons of it spilled into the Dan River in North Carolina earlier this month. Water samples revealed arsenic levels beyond those considered safe for prolonged contact.

According to the EPA, slightly more than half of coal ash - also called "fly" ash - is disposed of in landfills or surface impoundments. Much of the rest is recycled for use in everyday materials such as concrete and wallboard - and even in small amounts in cosmetics, toothpaste and a host of other substances.

To read entire editorial, click here.