Mining Practices and Environmental Impact

Which mining practice could be deemed more environmentally friendly?

• Shaft mining

• Dredging

• Quarrying

• Using chemicals for separation

Answer explanation

Quarrying is generally considered more environmentally friendly than other practices like shaft mining, dredging, or using chemicals, as it often involves less disruption to the surrounding ecosystem and can be more easily rehabilitated.

What could be a consequence of not controlling air pollution in mining?

• Decreased mining efficiency

• Improved public health

• Better mining practices

• None of the above

Answer explanation

Not controlling air pollution in mining can lead to decreased mining efficiency due to health issues among workers and potential regulatory penalties, which can disrupt operations and increase costs.

How effective would planting trees be in mitigating mining impacts?

• Very effective

• Somewhat effective

• Not effective at all

• It depends on the mineral mined

Answer explanation

Planting trees is very effective in mitigating mining impacts as they help restore ecosystems, improve air quality, and prevent soil erosion. Trees can also enhance biodiversity, making them a crucial part of environmental recovery efforts.

What impact does the use of old technology in mining have?

• Increases efficiency

• Reduces costs

• Leads to accidents and inefficiencies

• Improves product quality

Answer explanation

The use of old technology in mining often leads to outdated practices, which can cause accidents and operational inefficiencies, making it a significant risk compared to modern methods.

Which is a necessary step for minimizing damage from mining?

• Increase production

• Use more land for mining

• Employ environmentally friendly methods

• Ignore regulations

Answer explanation

Employing environmentally friendly methods is essential for minimizing damage from mining, as it helps reduce pollution and habitat destruction, ensuring a more sustainable approach to resource extraction.

Propose a method for reducing water pollution from mining.

• Increase mining

• Plant vegetation around mining sites

• Use more machinery

• Move mining operations underground

Answer explanation

Planting vegetation around mining sites helps to absorb excess nutrients and pollutants, reducing runoff into nearby water sources. This method enhances soil stability and promotes natural filtration, effectively mitigating water pollution.

Design an ideal mining operation that minimizes environmental impacts. Which feature is essential?

• Use of non-renewable resources

• Advanced technology for extraction

• Neglecting waste management

• Large scale open cast mining

Answer explanation

Advanced technology for extraction is essential as it enhances efficiency and reduces environmental impacts, such as minimizing waste and energy consumption, unlike the other options which could exacerbate environmental harm.

What innovative strategy could be proposed to enhance gold mining efficiency in Tanzania?

• Rely solely on manual labor

• Implement modern extraction techniques

• Ignore safety regulations

• Increase chemical usage

Answer explanation

Implementing modern extraction techniques can significantly enhance gold mining efficiency in Tanzania by increasing yield, reducing waste, and improving safety, unlike relying on manual labor or ignoring regulations.

How can local communities be involved in mining operations?

• By restricting their access to land

• Through consultation and employment opportunities

• By disregarding their concerns

• By increasing pollution

Answer explanation

Local communities can be involved in mining operations through consultation and employment opportunities, ensuring their voices are heard and providing them with jobs, which fosters a positive relationship between the community and the mining company.

What comprehensive approach could help tackle mining's environmental issues?

• No regulations on mining practices

• Combining restoration efforts with stricter regulations

• Limiting mining to only one area

• Reducing mining activities completely

Answer explanation

Combining restoration efforts with stricter regulations addresses mining's environmental issues effectively. This approach ensures that while mining continues, there are measures in place to restore ecosystems and minimize damage.