Part A:
Strip Mining
Strip mining is a type of surface mining, which involves the
removal of a thin layer of material known as an “overburden” to access buried
deposits of useful minerals. It is only effective in areas where mineral
deposits are close to the surface because it makes it feasible to quickly and
easily remove the overburden to get to them. It is used to mine tar sand and
coal. In this technique, the first step is removing the trees, shrubs, and
structures on the area to be mined; this process usually involves using
heavy-duty bulldozers. Next would be to drill holes for the placement of
explosives, which loosen the overburden so that it can be removed. Once it is
exposed, the minerals can be extracted. Pros of strip mining are that its
better efficiency, cost, and safety compared to underground mining. The cons of
strip mining would include the destruction of the natural ecosystem, potential for
environment pollutants. Nearby water sources can also become contaminated by
the dumping of excavated material and from the use of extraction solvents.
Shaft Mining
Shaft mining is a used to vertically gain access to an
underground mining facility. There are many different components, which make up
the shaft. The vertical central shaft of a shaft mine is known as a service cage,
which is used to transport personnel. The shaft is split into different sections;
each is vertical as they run parallel to the service cage. The service cage
contains a large elevator, which is used to transport mining personnel up and
down the shaft to different levels. Outside of the service cage are small
shafts called skips. They are used to transport ore to the surface. They can
also be used for other necessities such as pipelines for water and fuel, along
with ventilation systems. These are essential parts of shaft mining (water,
fuel and air play). Pros of shaft mining
are that it allows the land above to be used for other purposes, it is less
harmful to the environment and wildlife, and it provides access to mineral
deposits in any direction beneath the earth. Cons would include that it is
dangerous, harmful toxins and chemical can be inhaled, and it is much more
expensive.
Part B:
As a spouse of a miner I would want my husband to work in
strip mining because of safety purposes, it is much safer compared to shaft
mining. As an owner of a mining company I would prefer to own strip mining
because it is cheaper than shaft mining. As an environmentalist I would much
rather prefer shaft mining because it is less harmful to the environment and
wildlife, whereas strip mining causes destruction of natural ecosystems. As an
owner of a nearby ski resort, I would prefer shaft mining because it is more “hidden”
allowing it to be less disruptive to my business. As a politician I would
prefer shaft mining because it is more environmentally friendly compared to
strip mining.
Part C:
Brazil ranks as one of the world’s leading countries for
mining investment. Since 1995, the country has had an internationally
competitive mining legislation attractive to miners. The country offers ample
infrastructure, technical personnel, highly skilled professionals and an
established legal system. Currently, Brazil is the fourth largest producer of
gold in the world. It also possesses world-class bauxite, gold, iron, ore,
manganese, nickel, copper, phosphate, platinum, tin and uranium deposits.
