Factors Affecting Decision to Extract Rocks and Minerals (00:00 - 09:59) • "The cost of exploration and extraction so how expensive it is to extract rocks and minerals so extravagant minerals you need a whole lot you need a good accessibility you need you need workers you need good roads to transport the minerals to where it will process so all these cost money." o The method of extraction needs to be considered in relation to the potential profit. o The mining method is important because open pits which is surface mining is cheaper than shaft mining which is observance mining. Geology and Type of Ore • Type of ores present, high grade or low grade, will impact profitability. o High grade ores yield more required chemical elements than the low grade ore. o Small deposit of high grade ore are worth mining because it yields more profit. Environmental Impact Assessment • "For a licensed application to be approved for you to carry out the process of mining the company must have a plan to keep the lost habitat habitat minimal because you know you have to clear the habit at first use explosive in the case of surface mining so all those stuff destroy the local environment so they have to come up with ways in which they will be able to restore the environment after they are done with their mining processes." o Choice of sites for mine waste should be considered. o Environmental impact on habitat and water bodies should be assessed. Supply and Demand • Increasing world demand for any mineral oil will elevate the price. o The profit for a working mine depends on the changes in terms of supply and demand. Impact of Rocks and Mineral Extraction • Positive impacts include employment opportunities and improvement in the local national economy. o Negative impacts include visual pollution, loss of scenic beauty, and air and noise pollution. Managing the Impact • Safe disposal of mining waste is crucial to reduce land and air pollution. o Land restoration such as soil improvement and bioremediation are important strategies. o Ways that the mine can be used after extraction has been finished should be considered, such as converting it into a landfill site or a natural reserve. Sustainable Use of Rocks and Minerals (10:01 - 13:34) • • • "Sustainable resources is one that is produced as rapidly as it is removed from the environment so that it does not run out." o Sustainable resources are produced at the same rate as they are removed from the environment to avoid depletion. Sustainable development provides for the needs of an increasing human population without harming the environment. o Development must meet human needs without causing environmental damage. Strategies for sustainable use of rocks and minerals include: o Increased efficiency of extraction o Processing mine waste for valuable mineral recovery and pollution reduction o Increased efficiency of the use of rocks and minerals o Recycling rocks and minerals ▪ Legislation can be created to enforce responsible recycling and reuse by manufacturers. Potential Uses of Abandoned Mines • • Abandoned mines can be repurposed into tourist attractions such as golf courses or national parks. o These sites can attract visitors and provide opportunities for relaxation and leisure activities. There is potential for sustainable use of abandoned mine sites for various purposes, including hospitality and recreation. o Hotels can be built on these sites to further utilize the space for sustainable purposes.
