Long railroads pose danger

It is certainly true that global warming is taking place and that the burning of coal is a contributor [“Global warming should rule out the expansion of coal,” Opinion, Jan. 2]. However if we don't sell it to China, it won't stop them from using it; they will just buy it elsewhere. Why not take the money and if nothing else, it will help the imbalance of trade with China.

My problem is not the selling of U.S. coal but the incredibly long trains. The railroads can keep the dust down but not de-railings. It seems as though every winter week, mudslides occur between Seattle and Everett.

Just imagine the ecological disaster if some of the railroad cars would upend into Puget Sound.

—Martin Paup, Seattle