DisasterMaterial Extraction
The metal mining process of materials extraction has causes of environmental concerns. It’s also the human and environmental price we’re willing to pay for a future of wind turbines, solar panels, energy-efficient buildings, and electric vehicles.
In the game
In the game Climate Cooldown, "Materials Extraction" is a Disaster card that increases the global emissions and has a harmful effect on the water supply. Mining for materials we need for sustainable power still comes at a cost.
Prospective degrees
Mining engineeringEnvironmental science with a focus on resource management
Careers
Sustainable mining engineerResource extraction impact assessment specialist
For the classroom
Discussion prompts by grade level
- What is material extraction and why is it important?
- Can you think of any everyday products that require material extraction?
- Describe the process of material extraction and its environmental impacts, such as habitat destruction and pollution.
- Discuss the concept of resource depletion and its implications for sustainable resource management.
- Examine the social, economic, and environmental consequences of material extraction industries, including mining and logging.
- Evaluate strategies for promoting responsible resource extraction practices and reducing the environmental footprint of material extraction.
- Critically analyze the global patterns of material extraction and their connections to economic development, globalization, and environmental justice.
- Discuss the potential of circular economy principles and sustainable materials management in minimizing the environmental impacts of material extraction.
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