Mining involves the exploration and extraction of minerals from deposits in the earth. These minerals may be broadly classified as industrial, such as sand and silica; fuel minerals such as coal and uranium; and metallic minerals such as gold and platinum. Metallic minerals are usually present in the earth as ores and must be treated with chemicals or heat to produce the desired metals. For example, bauxite which is mined in Linden is an ore that must be treated to produce aluminum which is then used to manufacture airplanes, electronics and utensils. Minerals such as gold and diamond are commonly used to make fine jewelry which is then retailed at higher prices.
Mining is a global industry and meets the economic needs of many nations. In modern society, humans are consuming – through their lifestyles increasing amounts of minerals. According to Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the average American now consumes 37 million lbs. of minerals, metals and fuel, over the course of a lifetime!

Impacts of mining
Mining, though a lucrative industry, has several impacts on the environment and can be devastating if not conducted in a sound manner.

Air
Before a site can be mined, overburden is usually removed from the site along with vegetation. This, as well as when overburden is stored or returned to mining pits for closure, releases particulate matter into the air. Soil becomes exposed to the weather elements and particles become airborne with wind erosion and the traffic or vehicles. Dangerous materials such as arsenic and lead may be present in particulate matter which can adversely affect air quality and health.

Land
As land is removed for mining, much of the surface features are lost and cannot be replaced at closure. Further, valuable plant species may be lost along with the habitats of several animals causing the death and migration of wildlife. Deforestation from mining contributes to the release of carbon dioxide into the air which increases the rate of climate change.

Water
When mining is done near water sources the risk of metal contamination and increased sedimentation levels is very high. Improperly managed practices result in increased soil erosion and can cause high siltation of rivers and creeks. Tailings containing mercury and other harmful chemicals threaten the fisheries sector, domestic water supply and human health.

Mitigating the impacts from mining
You might be wondering what it takes to ensure safe mining practices. To ensure that mining has a reduced environmental impact, the practices used now should be such that they do not compromise the needs of future generations. As such, the mining authorities have been making steady progress in influencing a change to better environmental practices in mining. Mining regulations are in place to which miners are expected to adhere to guide safe mining practices. These regulations include but are not limited to the requirement of land management plans particularly for land reclamation and waste management plans inclusive of cleaner production technologies, waste reduction and disposal. Miners are required to utilize the best technologies and designs available to reduce or avoid the use of harmful substances such as mercury and to avoid pollution of water sources. Mining must be done as efficiently and safely as possible to reduce potential impacts on the environment on human health. After all, human and environmental health is as precious as gold.
This week the Ministry of Natural Resources celebrates Mining Week under the theme: ‘Extracting Minerals; Underscoring safety, Protecting the Environment’.

Share your ideas and questions by sending letters to: “Our Earth, Our Environment”, C/O EIT Division, Environmental Protection Agency, Ganges Street, Sophia, GEORGETOWN, or email us at: eit.epaguyana@gmail.com.