Mining Techniques

Open-Pit mining

Large pit is dug into the ground to extract ores near the surface.

Subsurface mining

A mining technique involving the extraction of minerals or resources from beneath the earth's surface, often using tunnels or shafts.

Strip mining

A surface mining method where layers of soil and rock are removed to expose mineral deposits, typically used for coal and other flat-lying deposits.

Mountaintop removal

A mining practice that involves removing the summit of a mountain to access coal seams, resulting in significant environmental impact.

Drilling

A mining technique that involves creating holes in the ground to access minerals or extract geological information. Often used for exploration and resource extraction in various types of mining.

Environmental Issues with

Open-Pit mining

Destroys landscapes, creates large holes, causes habitat loss, and can pollute water with runoff.

Environmental Issues with

Subsurface mining

Dangerous for workers, causes land subsidence, and may pollute groundwater.

Environmental issue with

Strip mining

Leads to soil erosion, habitat destruction, and  water pollution.

Environmental issue with

Mountaintop removal

Destroys entire ecosystems, pollutes rivers and streams, and causes air pollution.

Environmental issue with Drilling

Can cause oil spills, water pollution and air pollution from gas leaks.