Question

Aspects of Environment

Mining Activities that May Impact on the Environment

Action taken at the Mine to Reduce the impact

Air



 

Water



 

Land



 

Energy

 

 

 

 

Waste Management

 

 

 

 

Answer 1

### Aspects of Environment

#### Mining Activities that May Impact on the Environment

1. **Air**
- Dust emissions from excavation and material handling
- Release of greenhouse gases (GHGs) from machinery and transportation
- Fumes from on-site equipment and processing plants

2. **Water**
- Water pollution from runoff containing heavy metals and chemicals
- Increased sedimentation in local water bodies
- Changes in groundwater levels and quality due to extraction activities

3. **Land**
- Habitat destruction and loss of biodiversity
- Soil degradation and erosion
- Alteration of landforms and landscapes due to excavation and dumping

4. **Energy**
- High energy consumption leading to increased GHG emissions
- Dependence on fossil fuels for machinery and transportation
- Inefficiencies in energy use within operational processes

5. **Waste Management**
- Generation of waste materials (tailings, slag, etc.)
- Improper handling and storage of hazardous materials
- Landfill use for non-recyclable waste

### Action Taken at the Mine to Reduce the Impact

1. **Air**
- Implementation of dust suppression techniques (water sprays, chemical dust suppressants)
- Use of cleaner technologies and equipment to lower emissions
- Emission controls and regular monitoring of air quality

2. **Water**
- Treatment and recycling of wastewater before discharge
- Implementation of sediment and erosion control measures
- Regular monitoring for pollutants and adherence to water quality standards

3. **Land**
- Use of best practices for land reclamation post-mining
- Creation and maintenance of buffer zones around sensitive habitats
- Implementation of conservation programs to protect local biodiversity

4. **Energy**
- Transition to renewable energy sources (solar, wind) for operations
- Energy efficiency programs to reduce overall consumption
- Adoption of best practices in energy management to minimize waste

5. **Waste Management**
- Developing comprehensive waste management plans with recycling strategies
- Safe disposal methods and containment for hazardous materials
- Regular audits and assessments to improve waste management practices

These actions reflect an understanding of sustainable mining practices that balance environmental protection with resource extraction needs.