How Mining Pollutes Water

Mining activities are notorious for their significant impact on water quality. The extraction and processing of minerals and ores often lead to the contamination of surrounding water bodies through various mechanisms. Acid Mine Drainage (AMD) is one of the most critical and widespread issues, resulting from the oxidation of sulfide minerals exposed during mining operations. This process produces sulfuric acid, which can leach heavy metals such as lead, arsenic, and mercury into waterways, severely affecting aquatic life and making the water unsafe for human use. Heavy Metal Contamination occurs when toxic metals from mining waste are washed into rivers and lakes. These metals can accumulate in the tissues of aquatic organisms, leading to long-term ecological damage and health risks for humans consuming contaminated water or fish. Sedimentation from mining operations can also lead to increased turbidity in water bodies, disrupting the habitats of fish and other aquatic species and reducing the oxygen levels necessary for their survival. The use of toxic chemicals, such as cyanide in gold mining, can further exacerbate water pollution. When these chemicals are not properly managed, they can leak into nearby streams and rivers, posing significant risks to both the environment and public health.