Mining has never been recognised as a particularly eco-friendly process, but with a growing focus on protecting our planet from harm, the already hot topic is quickly becoming unavoidable. The question is, however, just how harmful to our environment is mining, and how can we improve it in the future? From the adaption of mining tools, to the introduction of automated processes to improve efficiency, we’re taking a closer look, below.
The Current State
Despite gradual improvements in the world of mining since the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act in 1997, the mining industry is still under pressure to improve their processes. Greenhouse gases, chemical use, physical environmental impact or destruction and more have all caused issues in the industry and as a result, today’s technologies have to work hard to offer solutions to these issues. But what could be done?
What Could Be Done To Change It?
There are a number of potential solutions to improving the mining industry, some of which may be more sustainable than others. These include:
- Closing or reclaiming unused mining sites
By closing down and reclaiming any unused mining sites, regulation can be more effectively implemented across the globe. Closed down mines are at risk of being commandeered by illegal miners or, if left untouched, are at risk of harming the environment through rotting and decaying materials. Whether these sites are closed down, drained and taken apart, or reopened as active sites may depend on the mine, but could be an effective way to cut down on environmental harm.
- Closing all illegal or unregulated mines
In a similar strain to the above, closing down any illegal or unregulated mines can help the industry keep track of its emissions. In order to maintain control over what is being mined, where it is being mined and how these mines are being run, all illegal and unregulated sites need to be shut down, or regulation needs to be put into place.
- Use scraps or recycling
One of mining’s biggest downfalls has been the amount of waste leftover throughout the process. However, more and more mining companies around the world are beginning to look into different ways that they can reduce waste and recycle what is able to be recycled. By reusing materials, recycling others and reducing the use of certain harmful products where possible, scrap mining can become a worthwhile trend.
- Investing in research
With a lessening focus on mining across the construction industry, the need for proper research into how to improve processes is constantly growing. By investing more time, money, resources and workforce into researching green mining and related technologies, we could see an improvement in how we mine.
- Replenishing mined environments
Taking the time to replenish and clean up at the end of a mining site’s life is the best way to not only improve environmental impact, but create a much more favourable attitude from those who live nearby. Something as simple as replenishing local wildlife and flora, even down to relaying top soil to promote growth in the future, can all have a massive impact on how environmentally friendly a mine site is.
- Utilise technologies to improve efficiency
By paying attention to growing technologies, we could see an improvement in how everyday processes are conducted. By improving efficiency, we could effectively improve the speed and effectiveness of any one process, thus reducing the time spent and waste created from mining.
With plenty of different solutions to improving the mining industry, it’s very possible that we could see eco-friendly mining take the lead in the future. Through proper regulation and improved efficiency, we could see a revolution in mining that chances the entire industry for the better.
