Business Daily The environmental impact of mineral mining
May 28, 2025
In this discussion, Karen Hudson-Edwards, a Professor of Sustainable Mining at Camborn School of Mines, dives into the pressing environmental impacts of mineral mining amidst the green energy boom. She reveals the harrowing conditions in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where child labor is rampant in artisanal mining. Hudson-Edwards emphasizes the need for responsible mining practices and improved safety standards to protect both communities and ecosystems. She also explores the evolving landscape of sustainable mining, integral for a greener future.
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Mining's Environmental Tradeoffs
- Mining critical minerals has significant environmental and social impacts.
- Responsible mining can reduce these but never eliminate footprint or landscape changes entirely.
Investors Must Enforce Responsibility
- Investors hold power to pressure mining companies to improve safety and responsibility.
- They must raise their game to enforce better environmental and social standards.
Mixed Cobalt Supply Chains
- Cobalt from artisanal and industrial mines in the DRC often mixes in supply chains.
- This raises ethical concerns including child labor linked to global technology products.
