There are several reasons why small scale mining may be seen as more harmful to the environment and causes more social problems than large scale mining:
1. Lack of regulation and monitoring: Small scale mining operations are often informal and operate without proper oversight or regulation. This can lead to unsustainable mining practices, such as the use of toxic chemicals like mercury, and a lack of proper waste management, which can harm the environment.
2. Limited resources for environmental conservation: Small scale miners may not have the financial resources or technical expertise to implement proper environmental management practices, such as mine reclamation and rehabilitation. This can result in long-lasting environmental degradation in mining areas.
3. Social conflicts and human rights abuses: Small scale mining operations can lead to conflicts over land and resources with communities, indigenous peoples, and other stakeholders. There have also been reports of human rights abuses, including child labor and unsafe working conditions, in small scale mining operations.
4. Limited economic benefits for local communities: Small scale mining operations may not provide significant economic benefits to local communities, as much of the profits may be taken by middlemen or corrupt officials. This can lead to increased poverty and social problems in mining areas.
Overall, while large scale mining operations may have a larger environmental footprint, small scale mining can have more direct negative impacts on the environment and local communities due to the lack of regulation, limited resources, and social conflicts associated with these operations.
Some researchers believe that small scale mining is more harmful to the environment and
causes more social problems than large scale mining. WHY
1 answer