Mining

Surface mining is when a large, open working surface is created, often by drilling and blasting the rock with explosives. Removal of this rock creates a large pit or open-cut mine.

Underground mining uses vertical shafts or a decline (slope) to transport workers and vehicles underground to pick up crushed ore and carry it to the surface.

Sand mining uses dredging (underwater excavation) to remove minerals from sand.

Mining can cause erosion, subsidence of land (downward vertical movement/ cave in), poisoning of soil and water, dust, and loss of biodiversity - because it destroys ecosystems.