Mining Activities Harm Forests, Water and Rural Livelihoods Worldwide

Mining operations are responsible for more than 10% of global deforestation, degrading forests and threatening the water quality that rural agricultural communities depend on. The expansion of mines to meet demand for metals used in infrastructure, renewable energy and manufacturing intensifies land‑use competition, contaminates waterways with heavy metals and acid drainage, and releases large quantities of greenhouse gases.

Coal mining alone contributes roughly 40% of global CO₂ emissions. It causes extensive land disturbance, habitat loss, soil degradation, air pollution, and biodiversity decline. Acid mine drainage and other water contamination further jeopardize food security and the resilience of farming and forestry sectors. Sustainable mining practices and better monitoring are highlighted as essential to reduce these environmental harms and protect rural livelihoods.