How does mining affect climate change?

Question

Andrew Armstrong · Accepted Answer

Some impact, but generally not a huge amount at least on an individual site basis.

Large diesel loaders and trucks are frequently used in mining, which releases CO2, the primary cause of anthropogenic climate change. Additionally, removing trees to make room for mining operations reduces the value that trees have in absorbing CO2 released into the atmosphere; some mining companies, such as those in Alberta's oilsands, are required to replant forests in order to make up for the trees they remove; however, there isn't much that can be done to reduce emissions from mining trucks and shovels other than maintaining them. In contrast to coal-fired power plants and the billions of automobiles, trucks, buses, trains, and airplanes that are a part of our society, mining as a whole makes up very little.

Jose Arroyo · Answer

undefined Mining can affect climate change through various mechanisms, including the release of greenhouse gases such as methane and carbon dioxide during the extraction and processing of minerals, deforestation and habitat destruction associated with mining activities, and the release of pollutants into the atmosphere, soil, and waterways. Additionally, mining operations often require significant energy inputs, contributing to carbon emissions and exacerbating the impacts of climate change.