Because mining focuses on the removal of nonrenewable resources, mines exist only temporarily, and close once the area has been depleted of the desired materials. Unfortunately, the effects of mining last for years after operations have ended, and are often detrimental to the environmental health of the area. Some of the risks associated with mining include:

 

Deforestation

  Mining requires large areas that need to be cleared prior to mining activities. Large-scale deforestation results in the loss of oxygen producing plants, the destruction of vital habitats for wildlife and the disruption of an area’s ecosystem. Deforestation is also leads to extinction of indigenous animals, plants and organisms, thus reducing overall biodiversity.​

 

 

Pollution​  

Mining utilizes a variety of poisonous chemicals, including mercury, cyanide, sulfuric acid, arsenic and methyl mercury, which can leak into nearby water supplies or evaporate into the air, bringing them into contact with humans, and wildlife.
Runoff from mining can cause sediment to enter the water supply, which can also carry with it poisonous chemicals and metals. Examples of mining pollution include acid rain, rock debris, mercury contamination, soil nutrients contamination and more.
Mining also changes the chemical composition of the soil. Even when a mine is filled and attempts are made to bring it back to its original state, the soil nutrients have been removed or severely altered, making the land unsuitable for farming.

 

 

Health Concerns

  Because chemicals are used in various mining processes, poisoning from handling the material, or through contact with contaminated air, water or food, is a risk for miners and local residents.​

 

 

Retrieved from: http://www.metallixrefining.com/harmful-effects-of-mining-and-viable-alternatives/​