The Environmental Impacts of Gold Mining

[Ganibade]

Popular pictures of gold miners pounding pick axes into deep gold veins or panning for nuggets in mountain streams no longer accurately depict how gold is mined today. The majority of the gold-rich veins on earth have been depleted.

Due to its scarcity, gold must be extracted by blasting large open pits, followed by the excavation of a significant amount of ore. To release any gold that may be embedded in the rocks, the ore is crushed into tiny particles. To dissolve the gold, the tiny particles must be treated with a liquid solvent and mixed with water to create a powder.

The only known substance that can dissolve gold through a process known as gold dissolution is cyanide, a highly poisonous chemical.

The most significant environmental issue associated with gold mining is the impact of mines on the surrounding environment. To mandate that mining sites be returned to their original contours, the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 was passed. Prior to receiving a mining permit, the act also mandates that a mining operator submit a plan for restoring the land and one for reducing acid mine drainage.

The fact that gold can be recycled is one of its most profound qualities. With gold prices at an all-time high in recent years, individuals across the nation have been hosting gold parties in an effort to recycle old gold jewelry. Old, broken, and infrequently worn gold jewelry at a gold party

 

[Jasz]

1. Land degradation: Gold mining often involves the removal of large amounts of soil and rock, which can lead to soil erosion, deforestation, and loss of biodiversity.
2. Water pollution: Gold mining can contaminate water sources with toxic chemicals used in the extraction process, such as cyanide and mercury. This can harm aquatic life and impact human health.
3. Air pollution: Gold mining can also lead to air pollution, as dust and emissions from mining operations can affect air quality and cause respiratory problems.
4. Climate change: Gold mining contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, including carbon dioxide and methane, through energy-intensive processes and the use of heavy machinery.
5. Land use conflicts: Gold mining can lead to conflicts with local communities over land use and resource access, particularly in indigenous territories and areas with high conservation value

 

[Ramolak19]

At least you have made some reasonable points but i will like to add some little points Gold mining can have significant environmental impacts, including deforestation, soil erosion, water pollution, and the release of toxic chemicals such as mercury and cyanide. Mining activities can also disrupt ecosystems and cause the loss of biodiversity. The use of heavy machinery and explosives can contribute to air and noise pollution, and the creation of tailings, or waste materials, can pose long-term environmental risks.

And to minimize these impacts, mining companies must implement sustainable practices such as responsible waste management, reforestation, and the use of non-toxic alternatives to harmful chemicals.