Mining in developing countries continues to pose serious environmental problems. The location of mines, unaccountable extraction processes, and the lack of enforcement of mining codes are all factors that make mining an environmental disaster in Africa.
The perfect combination of mining and environmental protection is still a mirage in most African countries. The mining industry, mainly focused on the extraction of minerals and metals such as iron, copper, cobalt, nickel and cadmium, degrades ecosystems and contaminates the environment. “Oil, silver, copper, or gold are found in rocks containing sulphide ores, which release sulphuric acid when crushed and exposed to air and water. This acidic water dissolves other toxic metals in the ore, such as mercury, lead and cadmium. If not contained, acid mine drainage (AMD) releases toxins into the ecosystem that destroy all life in its wake,” noted the work of the Transnational Institute (TNI), a think tank committed to “building a just, democratic and sustainable world”.
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