mining of minerals

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Adopt-A-Topic: Mining Metals and Minerals Geographic: Russia

BNE IntelliNews Paper (April 16, 2023) LONG READ: Russia the mining and minerals titan of the future.By Ben Iris in  Berlin from: https://www.intellinews.com/long-read-russia-the-mining-and-minerals-titan-of-the-future-275935/

 

“Russia: The Mining and Minerals Titan of the Future” is an article that explores Russia’s growing significance in the global mining and minerals industry. The piece highlights the country’s vast untapped mineral resources, including coal, iron ore, gold, and rare earth elements. It discusses Russia’s ambitious plans to expand mining operations and attract foreign investments in the sector. The article also touches upon the technological advancements and infrastructure developments that are propelling Russia’s mining industry forward. Overall, the article portrays Russia as a formidable player in the global mining and minerals market with immense potential for future growth.

 

The article “Russia: The Mining and Minerals Titan of the Future” explores the potential environmental implications of Russia’s growing prominence in the mining and minerals industry. While the article primarily focuses on the economic and technological aspects, it indirectly touches upon the importance of environmental science in addressing the environmental impacts of mining activities. It raises questions about how Russia plans to balance its ambitious mining goals with sustainable practices and environmental conservation. As Russia continues to develop its mining sector, it will likely need to incorporate environmental science and adopt measures to mitigate the potential environmental risks associated with increased mining operations and resource extraction.My reaction is that Russia is heavily involved in underground resources and I learned how it works for the future of Russia. I learned that Russia is ranked number one and is superior for this resource and this is why they are rich.

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Adopt-A-Topic: Mining Metals and Minerals Geographic: Russia

White and case (19 January 2023)Mining & Metals 2023: Lifting the fog of uncertainty. From: https://www.whitecase.com/insight-our-thinking/mining-metals-2023-lifting-fog-uncertainty

 

The article “Mining and Metals 2023: Lifting the Fog and Uncertainty” provides an insightful overview of the current state and future prospects of the mining and metals industry. It examines the challenges faced by the sector, such as geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and environmental concerns. The article delves into the strategies and innovations that industry leaders are adopting to navigate these uncertainties successfully. It highlights the importance of embracing technological advancements like automation, digitization, and sustainable practices in order to enhance operational efficiency and reduce environmental impact. The article offers a comprehensive analysis of the mining and metals industry, shedding light on the key trends and opportunities that lie ahead in the Russia industry. 

 

The article explores how the sector is addressing environmental concerns through innovative approaches and sustainable practices. In recent years, the mining and metals industry has faced criticism for its environmental impact. However, the article highlights that Russia is making significant strides in this area. It discusses how the country is embracing advanced technologies and investing in research and development to minimize the environmental footprint of mining and metal extraction. One of the key aspects emphasized is the integration of environmental science into mining and metals operations. The article showcases the use of cutting-edge techniques like remote sensing and satellite imagery to monitor and manage environmental impacts. These technologies help identify areas of concern, track biodiversity, and ensure compliance with environmental regulations. My reaction is they are making strides for the future environment in Russia even though there has been a downfall for the past year.

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Adopt-A-Topic: Mining Metals and Minerals Geographic: Russia

Mining technology. (February 24 2023)One year on: Confusion and conclusions from the Russian invasion.By JP Casey from: 

 https://www.mining-technology.com/features/russian-invasion-war-mineral-exports-ukraine/#:~:text=GlobalData%20predicts%20that%20the%20combined,demands%20of%20its%20domestic%20industries.

 

One year after the Russia invasion of Ukraine, confusion and uncertainty still linger while some conclusions have emerged. The global mining industry has been significantly affected by this geopolitical event. The invasion disrupted supply chains and caused a decline in the production of key minerals, particularly those sourced from Ukraine and neighboring regions. As a result, prices of commodities such as iron ore, coal, and rare earth elements skyrocketed, impacting industries reliant on these resources worldwide. The mining industry has had to adapt by seeking alternative supply sources and diversifying their portfolios. Additionally, geopolitical tensions have prompted countries to review their dependencies and consider strategies for securing critical mineral resources independently or through partnerships.

 

The article “One Year On: Confusion and Conclusions from the Russia Invasion” delves into the impact of the Russia invasion of Ukraine on the global mining industry and its connection to environmental science. It explores how the invasion disrupted supply chains, leading to a decline in mineral production and a subsequent surge in commodity prices. This disruption has implications for environmental science as it highlights the vulnerability and fragility of global mineral supply chains. It underscores the need for sustainable mining practices and the exploration of alternative sources to reduce dependence on regions prone to geopolitical conflicts. My reaction to this is I learned that events around the country can affect other people and its environment by itself and created an impact on the industry and a set back.

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Adopt-A-Topic: Mining Metals and Minerals Geographic: Russia

By Maxim Trudolyubov. (February 3, 2023.) Putin Is Burning Through the Country’s Resources But There Is Still a Lot to Burn,from https://www.wilsoncenter.org/blog-post/putin-burning-through-countrys-resources-there-still-lot-burn

 

The article highlights the concerns regarding President Putin’s extraction and utilization of Russia’s mineral resources, emphasizing the environmental and economic consequences. It discusses how the country heavily relies on its vast mineral reserves, including oil, gas, and metals, to sustain its economy. However, this dependence has led to environmental degradation, including deforestation and pollution, as well as economic vulnerabilities due to overreliance on volatile commodity markets. While Russia still possesses significant untapped mineral resources, the article suggests the need for sustainable resource management, diversification of the economy, and investments in renewable energy to ensure long-term environmental and economic stability.

 

The article “Putin Is Burning Through the Country’s Resources But There Is Still a Lot to Burn” has relevance to environmental science as it highlights the environmental implications of Russia’s resource extraction practices. The overexploitation of natural resources, such as oil, gas, and minerals, by the government under President Putin’s leadership raises concerns about environmental degradation. These activities contribute to deforestation, habitat destruction, and pollution, impacting biodiversity and ecosystems. The article underscores the need for sustainable resource management, emphasizing the importance of environmental conservation and the transition to cleaner and renewable energy sources. It highlights the intersection between resource extraction, environmental sustainability, and the necessity to balance economic development with the preservation of natural resources for future generations. My reaction is that the heavily deep resourced country is actually killing the country as far as minerals go. It is severely hurting the environment. This conflicts with my previous article about how Russia goes about this business and the heavy question marks for such a prestigious and heavily resourced country coming in at number 1 as far as minerals and metals.

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Adopt-A-Topic: Mining Metals and Minerals Geographic: Russia

S&P Global Market intelligence.(24 Feb, 2023). United States.Metals and the invasion: Russian metals face shaky 2023 as China’s demand cools, from

https://www.spglobal.com/marketintelligence/en/news-insights/latest-news-headlines/metals-and-the-invasion-russian-metals-face-shaky-2023-as-china-s-demand-cools-74335700

 

The Russian metals industry is bracing for a turbulent 2023 due to a slowdown in China’s demand. The article highlights how China’s cooling demand for metals, including steel and aluminum, is expected to impact Russia’s metal exports. As China’s economy decelerates, it diminishes the need for raw materials, putting pressure on Russian metal producers. Experts predict that this dip in demand could lead to oversupply and a subsequent decrease in metal prices, posing challenges for Russia’s metal industry. To navigate this uncertain landscape, Russian metal companies may need to explore alternative markets and adjust their production levels accordingly.

 

The article “Russian metals face shaky 2023 as China’s demand cools” has relevance to environmental science as it sheds light on the interconnectedness between industrial production, global markets, and environmental impacts. The cooling demand for metals in China indicates a potential slowdown in manufacturing activities, which can have implications for resource extraction and energy consumption. The metal industry is known to have significant environmental footprints due to extraction processes and waste generation. Therefore, any fluctuations in metal demand and production can impact environmental sustainability efforts, resource management, and carbon emissions. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for assessing the environmental implications of industrial sectors and finding ways to promote greener practices and resource efficiency…. My reaction to this article is that Russia, being known as the highest Resource of mining metals and minerals, is on a current downfall and has to be smart due to the demand for more aluminum. My first reaction also was that I picked Russia because I knew it had the highest resources in that category and it was surprising to see the predicted dip. 

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Rare Earth Mining: Sacrificing The Environment to Save The Planet?

Foreign Policy In Focus (2023, August 17) Rare Earth Mining: Sacrificing The Environment to Save The Planet? Retrieved August 19, 2023, from 

Rare Earth Mining: Sacrificing the Environment to Save the Planet? – FPIF

In the Southern part of Sweden a picturesque lake surrounded by mountains is home to a large deposit of rare earth minerals. Mining companies have tried to get mining claims to the area but have been blocked by locals and environmentalists worried about the effect on the environment. This highlights the main issue with the green energy transition. To save the planet there’s a need for minerals and traditional mining that threatens to destroy local environments. 

The article shows the conflict of current methods to collect enough resources to fuel the green energy transition. There is a deadly trade off as to save the planet, ecosystems and environments would need to be sacrificed to mining. I’m interested in the articles because they show green energy solutions, despite being the best way forward. Aren’t necessarily perfect as to protect the planet ecosystems and environments are at risk of destruction. It shows that there is still a lot we need to learn if we want to keep our plant and all ecosystems protected. 

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Despite reforms, mining for EV metals in Congo exacts steep cost on workers.

The Washington Post (2023, August 4) Despite reforms, mining for EV metals in Congo exacts steep cost on workers. Retrieved August 20, 2023, from 

Mines for electric car metals in Congo strain workers’ health, families – Washington Post

Cobalt is an essential mineral in batteries that are used in a majority of electrical cars. The main producer of cobalt is the Congo. The mining of cobalt comes at a tremendous human cost. Hand dug mines in the Congo use child laborers in poor working conditions with many facing serious injuries and death. This is not only an issue in hand dug mines. In large industrial mines, miners face similar conditions. They can get seriously injured from mining accidents along with long term impacts caused by the nature of the work. The mines also threaten the local environment.

This is important because it shows that human suffering is still behind our green solutions. I think that it is important to show this issue. As we strive to save the planet our solutions can have real negative effects on local environments and humans to achieve this goal. It is hard to think about. Minerals and metals that are mined in places like the Congo are necessary for our transition to green energy but at the same time it also contributes to hard lives for the people surrounding these mines and working in them. 

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Not Enough Mineral Supply To Meet Looming Energy Demand

Timmins Today (2023, August 19) Not Enough Mineral Supply To Meet Looming Energy Demand: U.S. Report. Retrieved August 19, 2023, from 

Not enough mineral supply to meet looming energy demand: U.S. report – Timmins News (timminstoday.com)

In the US the Inflation Reduction Act has been passed to promote interest in high-tech and green-tech solutions to reach a net zero U.S. economy. The Act increased the demand for important minerals to 23 times higher. There is a sufficient supply of lithium, but Cobalt and nickel are in low supply. There is a large supply of copper in the US largely untapped, but the developments of mines in the US will take a while. This means the US will largely rely on imports from other countries. leading to future competition to secure resources from this country. 

This is an important article because it shows the large steps taken by the US government. We are shown how the US government is giving incentives for people to invest and improve green energy. This is beneficial to the future of green energy, but the resources needed for this endeavor are not fully realized. It shows that there are not enough available minerals and that there are not any mining operations ready for this project, so it shows it will likely take years or decades to fully supply the green transition.  

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‘Green Transition’ Needs Enhanced Action on Sustainable Minerals and Metals

News Wise (2023, August 17) ‘Green Transition’ Needs Enhanced Action on Sustainable Minerals and Metals. Retrieved August 19, 2023, from 

‘Green Transition’ needs enhanced action on sustainable minerals and metals (newswise.com)

Minerals and Metals make up the backbone of major industries. Governments need to be careful how they use these resources to keep long-sustainability in mind. The energy transition requires large amounts of resources as electric cars, wind turbines, and other green energy solutions have led to an increased demand for minerals. Because of the global nature of these resources, their challenges and responsibilities are shared across nations as countries like Switzerland look for increased collaboration. A circular economy is undeveloped but would be perfect for the transition to green energy as an efficient, circular economy allows minerals to replenish. 

I think This is an interesting article. It adds on to the rest of the article by showing the need for international cooperation and the steps that are taken by countries to create a connected world cooperating to gain the same goal. It also, rather than focusing on environmental impacts, looks at the bigger picture, in relation to the large number of resources required to prop up the green energy transition. It also shows the methods being tested by Empa that are delving into ways we can be more efficient for a circular economy to give minerals time to replenish.  

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Europe Is Embarking on a Mining Renaissance. Winning Over Locals Is Proving A Challenge.

The Wall Street Journal (2023, August 10) Europe Is Embarking on a Mining Renaissance. Winning Over Locals Is Proving A Challenge. Retrieved August 19, 2023, from 

Europe Is Embarking on a Mining Renaissance. Winning Over Locals Is Proving a Challenge. -WSJ

In the current era the transition to green energy solutions has increased the demand for minerals and metals such as copper and lithium. This increased demand has led to Governments such as in Europe to loosen their mining regulations and approve mining projects across Europe, leading to a mining renaissance. This however has been met by increased resistance. Locals nearby mining operations or future mining operations have protested these projects. Locals and environmentalists worry about the environmental impacts of mining as past mining disasters have had detrimental effects on local communities and ecosystems.

This article highlights the issues that lead to opposition to current attempts to save the planet. The transition to current green energy solutions leads to an increased need for metals and minerals, requiring more mining. This increased mining potentially threatens the local communities and ecosystems. This leads to many communities protesting mining sites and attempting to halt activity. I like this article as it shows that it is a cut dry solution. The transition to green energy has issues that need to be resolved to stabilize the planet.