I think I was probably fairly early in demonizing coal. I was born in New York City in 1934 and grew up there. Until maybe 1948, most buildings were heated by burning bituminous (greasy grainy looking soft coal). The thick brown smoke looked bad, smelled bad, stung the eyes, and was generally unacceptable. The switch to anthracite (which, in comparison looks like jewelry) was a really pleasant transition, although it was somewhat deceptive since there was still smoke but it was less visible. At any rate, I grew up with coal and was never a fan.

As to ethanol: I think it has already been dismissed as an alternative fuel source. Maybe, now that so much has been invested in distilleries, there will be a major push to make bourbon a diet staple.