In a world increasingly impacted by the effects of climate change, where can we find refuge? Among the numerous activities contributing to climate change, mining stands out as a significant disaster that has not been adequately addressed. This industry has played a major role in environmental degradation, pollution, soil erosion, and habitat destruction, leading to human-wildlife conflicts, loss of biodiversity and even affecting the lives of our parents a lot. The repercussions of mining can persist long after operations cease, decimating flora and fauna. Stone mining, in particular, poses severe health risks as workers inhale fine particles during blasting or drilling, resulting in respiratory illnesses.
The depletion of natural resources, loss of ecological balance, and disruption of local climates are also consequences of mining. Animals and humans struggle to coexist in areas ravaged by mining activities. The alteration of soil profiles, contamination of water sources, noise pollution, land degradation, and air pollution further compound the challenges faced by all living beings. These detrimental effects echo the themes of the third section of Laudato Si, highlighting the human origins of the ecological crisis.
While many countries, especially in Africa, depend on mining to boost their economies, the adverse impacts of mining stem from improper practices.
Mining Could Continue and the health of our parents be preserved
Besides our parents, tragically, numerous young individuals and children also perish due to unsafe mining methods, often unaware of the dangers they face. I recently visited a query and interacted with the miners who were both elders and young people I felt complete to write this article saying our authorities must enforce laws to prevent hazardous mining practices and protect lives. See even the recent tragedies, such as the eruptions in the Democratic Republic of Congo, underscore the dire consequences of neglecting safety measures in mining operations.
From my research findings,
I have discovered that protecting the well-being of individuals working in mines and preserving the environment during mining activities is crucial. The following ways were suggested to minimize the environmental impact of mining:
1. Safety Regulations: Implement and strictly enforce comprehensive safety regulations to protect miners from hazards such as cave-ins, explosions, and exposure to harmful substances.
2. Training and Education: Provide thorough training and ongoing education for miners on safety protocols, emergency procedures, and the proper handling of equipment to reduce accidents and injuries.
3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Ensure that all miners have access to and consistently wear appropriate PPE, including helmets, goggles, gloves, and respiratory protection, to shield them from potential dangers.
4. Regular Health Check-ups: Conduct regular health check-ups for miners to monitor their well-being and detect any occupational health issues early on.
5. Emergency Response Plans: Develop and regularly practice emergency response plans to swiftly address accidents, injuries, or environmental incidents that may occur during mining operations.
6. Environmental Impact Assessments: Conduct thorough environmental impact assessments before initiating mining activities to understand potential risks to the ecosystem and implement measures to mitigate them.
7. Reclamation and Rehabilitation: Implement reclamation and rehabilitation plans to restore mined areas to their natural state once mining operations cease, promoting ecosystem recovery and biodiversity conservation.
8. Water Management: Implement effective water management practices to prevent contamination of water sources from mining activities and ensure the preservation of clean water for local communities and wildlife.
9. Waste Management: Properly manage and dispose of mining waste to prevent pollution and minimize environmental harm, utilizing techniques such as tailings dams and waste recycling where feasible.
10. Community Engagement: Involve local communities in the decision-making process regarding mining activities, address their concerns, and work collaboratively to protect both the environment and the well-being of residents.
Having reflected on the above ten points dear reader agree with me that by prioritizing the safety of miners, implementing sustainable mining practices, and proactively addressing environmental concerns, we can strive to create a safer and more environmentally responsible mining industry and our parents and siblings who are miners but also conserve our biodiversity and ecosystem
The global leadership must also prioritize stringent safety regulations for mining companies to safeguard our lands and biodiversity. By implementing responsible and sustainable mining practices, we can create a safer and healthier environment for ourselves, our communities, our nations, our future, and the world at large. Let us unite for climate action. Sometimes your action can be information sharing, let me know your comments about these thoughts, and commit to preserving Mother Earth, ensuring a cleaner and more sustainable future for all.
Sarah Kirikumwino
Laudato Youth Initiative
