Planned and sustainable use of mineral resorces is needed. Why?
Answers
Minerals are non–renewable natural resources that are vital for the construction, manufacturing and energy industries. The aim of sustainable mineral development is to ensure mineral use is kept to a minimum amount without having a negative impact on economic growth. This is achieved by efficient use of minerals as well as recycling and the use of alternative materials.
Also, it is important that the natural environment is protected from damage that may be caused by mineral extraction. This will help maintain biodiversity and ensure that contamination is not a problem for future generations. The negative impacts of mineral extraction includes unsightly workings, mineral waste piles and pollution from acidic water containing heavy metals.
Following efforts have to be made to use mineral in a planned and sustainable manner:
(i) Recycling of metals: We should recycle the metal or metal-made products to prevent its scarcity.
For example: Used steel blade should be sent for recycling, so that the steel can be used again for other purposes.
(ii) Improved technologies need to be evolved: Traditional technologies should be replaced with new and improved technologies, so that the wastages can be minimised.
(iii) Use of substitute or alternative resources: The resources which cannot be recycled or: reused should be replaced with the recyclable resources.
e.g. Use of green gas instead of coal for cooking purpose.