Environmentalists all argue that mining is terrible for the environment; Miners argue that this is not the case if it's managed properly. But with incidents such as the Guyana spill of 1995 (a major cyanide spill which caused widespread damage to the eco-system, killing off fish, animals and plants, poisoning soil and polluting the water source for people), the environmental risks cannot be overlooked. Amanda Barnes takes a look at what are the main possible dangers for the environment through mining.
Deforestation and loss of biodiversity – In order to mine you need to clear whatever was on that land first, often vegetation. Deforestation of that area can mean a loss of biodiversity by removing the home for many living organisms on that site as well as contributing to global deforestation. Land clearing is not just on the mining area but also in building access and roads to it.
Pollution – Although measures are taken to reduce and manage the chemical waste, there is always a possibility of a leak which can be spilled on the land or in water, potentially harmful and hostile for the vegetation, flora and fauna living in these areas and, in the worst case scenario, a leak into the main water source for inhabitants could lead to poisoning.
Disease – Liquid waste from mining is sometimes extracted into a mining pit. This stagnant water pool can become a breeding ground for waterborne diseases.
To read more about some of the issues concerning mining, click here for more information about mining safety (Digging Deep), here for our interview with a geologist, and here for a report on a recent protest against mining in Mendoza.
