Dirty Metals: Mining, Communities and the Environment

Earthworks and Oxfam America

Mining has harmful effects on communities and their surrounding environment. Open-pit mines cause environmental destruction by deforestation and leaching harmful chemicals into water sources. The mining industries usually come to an area with the promise of creating jobs and boosting the economy; however, many people end up losing their livelihoods to these industries, as well as developing health issues from the exposure to hazardous chemicals. The mining industry violates human rights by negatively influencing the health, society and well-being of communities.

https://www.earthworksaction.org/files/publications/NDG_DirtyMetalsReport_HR.pdf