There will always be two sides of a coin.

Through the years, the Mining Industry has been helping human endeavors to progress towards the zenith of civilization. Ironically, the blatant benefits, direct or indirect, are merely recognized by most of the people. In fact, mining is indeed a prelude to progress since consumers are evidently exploiting and indulging themselves to the products of mining which primarily improve the quality of life. Moreso, the existence of responsible mining has brought an enormous contribution in terms of employment, mineral production, mineral export, taxes, fees, and royalties. This industry is a significant pedestal of the world's manufacturing industry for resources to build; and economic field for prosperity and energy to fuel growth.

However, the other side of a coin— the mining consequences also exist. Clearing large areas of land causing damage or destruction of ecosystems are the initial parts of mining activities. As development is continuously fueled by mining, the agents of this industry find ways to uphold the concept of inter-generational responsibility anchored with harmony on the environment. In connection with this, reinventing mining and practicing responsible mining are ways to mitigate habitat destruction as a threat to biodiversity. These environmentally sensitive areas are considered No-Go Zones for mining which acquire special consideration in mining regulation. Further, strictly complying and applying the concept of sustainable development addresses this issue on the destruction of habitat as part of the mining process by giving importance to the last stage in the life of a mine— rehabilitation.

The mine restoration or reclamation of the post-mined landscape to the intended beneficial post-mining land use is an excellent stage of minimizing the adverse environmental effects of mining. Since mining is temporary land use, responsible mining ensures mining lands to be rehabilitated and still remain useful for the community and biodiversity of species.

One example is the 1:100 reforestation ratio followed by Mines and Geosciences Bureau. For every tree that is cut down in mining, 100 new trees are planted to replace it. This may be a long-term replenishing of habitat, which means the prelude of progress takes time and still continues towards the future.

Biodiversity is an umbrella concept encompassing every living thing— from human to organism. Together, we live in an ecosystem composed of cycles that are responsible for working in balance for replenishing the ecosystem with nutrients necessary to sustain life. Parallel with mining, it exhibits controllable adverse effects but still holds a key role in sustaining wealth creation and improve quality of life.

Always weigh the two sides of a coin. You may never know— either side, a coin is a product of mining.

Author's Message:

As a mining student, I discovered the importance of mining industry in our life and I learned the impact it gives. Therefore, I wrote this article not to defend the mining organization but to share my knowledge on what responsible mining can do. I hope you learn something here. Thank you!