Surface mining, also known as strip mining, is used to recover materials like coal and tar sand. It is controversial due to its impact on the environment, but proponents argue it is more efficient, cost-effective, and safer than traditional underground mining. Critics are concerned about the destruction of natural ecosystems and the potential for environmental pollutants. Despite the debate, surface mining remains a commonly used method.
Mining is a form of surface mining that is usually employed for the recovery of materials such as coal and tar sand, which are relatively close to the surface of the earth. Surface vegetation, soil and rocks are removed in strips, often in conjunction with controlled blasts, to make removal more efficient. Once the vein of material is exposed, it is removed and transported for refinement. The technique is somewhat controversial, with benefits such as increased efficiency, cost and safety, and cons including destruction of natural ecosystem and the potential for environmental pollutants.
Proponents of mining cite its improved efficiency, cost, and safety over traditional underground mining techniques. The material recovery rate is higher with belt mining, with about 80% to 90% of the material recovered, compared to only about 50% with tunnel mining. This process is also much faster as tunnels do not have to be dug and supported and minerals are not lifted long distances to the surface. Both recovery and transportation are easier with surface mining techniques.
The cost of mining with this method is also lower. This helps defray production costs and therefore, in theory, the final cost of the material. Mining is also safer than mining underground, which can be dangerous due to collapsing tunnels and toxic air. Companies are now required to reclaim any land they use for mining, backfilling the removed areas and covering them with topsoil and replanted vegetation.
Critics of this extraction method are concerned about its impact and argue against such as the destruction of the natural ecosystem and the introduction of environmental pollutants. Even though companies are required by law to reclaim land, once fragile ecosystems are disturbed, it can take a few years to restore the balance, resulting in the loss of plant and animal life. If not done properly or if remediation takes a significant amount of time, the land becomes vulnerable to erosion and flooding, resulting in further destruction.
Nearby water sources can also be contaminated by dumping of excavated material and the use of mining solvents. Mining can also release toxins and dust into the air, resulting in widespread and poorly controlled contamination. Measures are taken to prevent these events, for example in sealed tailing ponds. These ponds, in which liquid contaminants are placed until they become solid and can be safely removed, should contain waste; however, they have been known to leak and contaminate nearby areas. Whatever the debate, strip mining remains a commonly used and efficient method of mining.
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