Bendigo Rise and Shine (RAS) Project. Part II. key Environmental Impacts of Gold Mining.
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“If you are gonna remove that hillside, you are gonna remove that hillside, it dosen’t matter how you do it.'“ Hayden Johnston, a local man.
Introduction
As gold mining companies like Santana Minerals prepare to release new studies on their practices on the Bendigo RAS Project, it's crucial for us to stay informed and engaged. Understanding the impacts of gold mining on our environment and communities helps us make sense of these reports.
According to Santana Minerals Environment Manager Mary Askey, "Our consultants are currently collating all that fieldwork data into a sensible format. We expect to start releasing relevant data through our website." When asked about a more reduced timeframe, Engagement Manager Vicky Blakeborough said, "We will be completing our baseline and technical studies before the end of the year."
In this post, we'll explore the key environmental impacts of gold mining and learn more about the role of gold in the economy, as well as some of its potential uses.
What is the Value of Gold?
Gold as a Monetary Concept
Gold has historically been a base of international currency systems due to its universal value and stability. Under the gold standard, which lasted until the early 20th century, many countries secure their currencies to a specific amount of gold, facilitating international trade and reducing exchange rate fluctuations. This system required countries to hold substantial gold reserves to back their currencies. However, the gold standard limited economic flexibility was eventually replaced by other systems.
Today, while no longer a standard for currency, gold still holds significant value as a financial asset. Central banks maintain gold reserves for economic stability, and investors view gold as a safe-haven asset, especially during times of economic uncertainty or inflation. It remains a global benchmark for value.
Uses of Gold
Gold nanoparticles are widely used in nanotechnology due to their unique properties. They are employed in medical diagnostics and cancer therapy. Their biocompatibility makes them ideal for use in medical imaging, where they help enhance contrast in scans. Additionally, gold's excellent conductivity and stability make it valuable in creating nanoscale sensors and catalysts in electronics and materials science, from batteries to solar energy manufacturing.
Can Gold Mining Be Done in a Sustainable Way?
Gold mining can be done in a more sustainable way, though it is challenging due to the inherent environmental impacts associated with the industry.
Environmental Impact of Gold Mining
Gold mining involves extracting gold from the earth, often through large-scale operations. While this industry can generate substantial economic benefits, it also raises several environmental concerns.
5 Key Environmental Impacts of Gold Mining
1. Land Degradation
Mining activities often result in significant land disruption, including deforestation and biodiversity loss. Large-scale operations can strip vast areas of vegetation and soil, leading to habitat destruction and soil erosion.
2. Water Usage
Gold mining requires large amounts of water for processing and separating gold from ore. This high water consumption can strain local water resources, impacting the availability of water for other uses in nearby communities.
3. Water Pollution
The extraction process frequently uses toxic chemicals such as cyanide and mercury. Cyanide is highly toxic and can cause acute health effects, including respiratory failure, heart problems, and even death if ingested in significant amounts. Mercury exposure can lead to serious health issues, such as neurological and developmental damage, especially in children and pregnant women. These chemicals can contaminate local water supplies, posing risks to both aquatic life and human health.
4. Waste Management
The industry generates large amounts of waste rock and tailings, which may contain harmful substances like heavy metals. Improper disposal or management of these wastes can lead to long-term environmental pollution, including soil and water contamination, which can have adverse effects on both ecosystems and human health.
4. Carbon Emissions
Gold mining is an energy-intensive process, requiring significant amounts of energy for excavation, ore processing, and refining. This energy often comes from fossil fuels, leading to substantial carbon dioxide (CO2) and greenhouse gas emissions. The use of heavy machinery and construction of infrastructure further contribute to the industry's carbon footprint, exacerbating climate change.
What to Look for in an Environmental Study from a Gold Mining Company?
1. Comprehensive Assessment
Scope: The study should cover all relevant environmental aspects, including air, water, soil, and biodiversity impacts.
Baseline Data: It should include data on the pre-existing environmental conditions to help assess the scale of potential impacts.
1.1 Biodiversity Conservation
Protecting Ecosystems: Mining projects should avoid ecologically sensitive areas and minimize habitat destruction. Efforts should be made to preserve local flora and fauna.
Rehabilitation and Reforestation: Mining companies should engage in reforestation and habitat restoration projects to offset the impact of land disturbance.
1.2 Carbon Emission Offsetting
Reducing Carbon Footprint: Companies should actively seek ways to reduce their carbon emissions, such as by improving energy efficiency and using renewable energy sources. Where emissions cannot be entirely eliminated, companies should invest in carbon offsetting initiatives, like afforestation projects or purchasing renewable energy credits, to neutralize their carbon footprint.
1.3 Water Management
Water Usage Estimates: The study should detail water consumption for ore processing, dust control, and other operational needs, specifying sources and conservation measures like recycling and reuse.
Effluent Discharge Practices: A gold mining environmental study must also include plans for discharging treated water, ensuring it meets environmental standards and does not harm local water bodies. This should cover discharge locations, methods, and monitoring protocols.
2. Mitigation Plans
Specific Measures: A detailed description of the mitigation strategies the company plans to implement, such as pollution control technologies, habitat conservation efforts, and community compensation plans.
Effectiveness: The study should evaluate the effectiveness of these measures and include contingency plans in case of unforeseen environmental issues.
4. Monitoring and Reporting
Ongoing Monitoring: The mining company should include a plan for ongoing monitoring of environmental impacts during and after the mining operation.
Transparency: Regular public reporting of environmental data and incidents to demonstrate the company's transparency and accountability. It should also provide clear information about the chemicals that will be used in the process, including their potential environmental and health impacts, and the measures in place to manage and mitigate these risks.
5. Community Involvement
Engagement Process: The study should detail how the company has engaged with local communities and stakeholders, including public consultations and feedback mechanisms.
6. Third-party Verification
Independent Audits: Verification by independent third parties, such as environmental consultancies or certification bodies, adds credibility to the study's findings.
Certification: Certifications like ISO 14001 for environmental management systems can indicate a company's commitment to maintaining high environmental standards.
7. Worker Accommodation and Housing
Housing Solutions: In regions facing housing shortages, such as Central Otago, all companies expecting a large number of workers should consider providing suitable accommodation for their employees.
Let’s stay informed and prepare for those studies!
