New research on mining in Africa reveals that the industry is causing serious deforestation and impacting communities that depend on forests for food, water, and livelihoods.
According to the news website TCD, research conducted by the University of Sheffield shows that for every hectare of active mine area... Africa is also linked to the loss of an additional 34 hectares of forest due to the development of related infrastructure. The study also points out that much of the damage occurs outside the mining areas, with roads, residential areas, and agricultural land created to support mining operations.
Between 2001 and 2020, mining activities in Africa destroyed 187,000 hectares of forest. Cobalt and copper mining caused the highest rates of deforestation, while gold, silver, and iron mining were also associated with significant forest loss.
Deforestation for worker housing, roads, and farmland can lead to the destruction of wildlife habitats, increase the risk of flooding and extreme heat, and make local food systems more vulnerable.
According to the UK's Institute for Materials, Minerals and Mining, metal ore mining in Africa has quadrupled since 1970, while demand for key minerals is projected to increase 40-fold by 2040. Dr. Oscar Morton, co-lead author of the study, argues that as demand for minerals continues to grow rapidly, it is crucial to take measures to curb the dramatic increase in deforestation caused by mining and its supply chain.
"The mines themselves are just the tip of the iceberg. The increased deforestation caused by mining is far greater, with new settlements, transportation routes, and agriculture posing a serious threat to vital forests across Africa," warned Dr. Oscar Morton.
Source: https://baolangson.vn/khai-thac-mo-dang-tan-pha-la-phoi-xanh-cua-chau-phi-5096771.html
