The minerals are extracted from the earth through the process of mining. As minerals are non-renewable resources, over exploitation will lead to its depletion within short period of years. Geologists are in general apprehension that the known reserve of most of the minerals will be exhausted within 100-200 years.
Effects of mining
Mining has serious impacts on human health and environment
Impacts on environment
Underground mining produces huge amount of waste earth and rock which will become toxic when come in contact with water and air
It causes land subsidence as mine collapses
It lowers the water table, change the flow of ground water and stream
Coal mining produces greenhouse gas emission. The coal mine methane is 20 times more powerful than carbon dioxide
Coal fire can burn decades and releases fly ash, smoke and toxic chemicals
there is an increased risk of chemical contamination of the ground water when the minerals sweep into the water table
Impacts on human health
Coal dust inhalation causes black lung disease among minors and those who live nearby
Mine accidents kill thousands of people every year
Silicosis, asbestosis, siderosis, fluorosis, bronchitis, birth defects etc. are some of the diseases caused by the chemicals entered into the environment from mining sites.
No comments:
Post a Comment