Using the classification system presented in the chapter section, “Major Areas of Environmental Regulation,” explain what type(s) of pollution is (are) generated by gold mining.  Which of these do you think is (are) most damaging to the environment, and why?

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1. Using the classification system presented in the chapter section, “Major Areas of Environmental Regulation,” explain what type(s) of pollution is (are) generated by gold mining.  Which of these do you think is (are) most damaging to the environment, and why?

Pollution refers to the presence or introduction of harmful or poisonous effects into the environment. Gold mining brings about various types of pollution, which may include air pollution, land pollution, and water pollution. Air pollution occurs through the use of diesel-powered machinery, which emit smoke into the atmosphere. Also, air pollution may occur due to the burning of coal, which results in global warming. Water pollution occurs when poisonous cyanide solution collects in water bodies and ends up killing fish and birds. Land pollution occurs when toxic cyanide and mercury accumulates and remains on the ground for a long time, where it eventually collects in water bodies. I think water pollution is the most damaging to the environment because when cyanide solution contains in the water bodies, it leads to the destruction of marine life and poses a threat to human beings and wildlife.

2. Using the classification system presented in the section, “Alternative Policy Approaches,” explain what type(s) of government regulation would most effectively address the concerns you identified in question 1

The best type of government regulation to control pollution levels would be to enforce a national pollution prevention policy. This would minimize pollution to low levels at the source whenever applicable. Pollution that cannot be minimized should then be treated in an environmentally friendly way. Also, disposing of waste materials should be channeled in the right places free from human beings and wildlife interference.

3. In your view, what role should nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) and citizen movements play in reducing the adverse environmental impacts of gold mining?

Nongovernmental organizations and citizen movements would help in reducing adverse environmental impacts by creating public awareness of the effects caused by the mining of gold. They can also release publications that teach on the harmful impacts of mining gold. Mass media and social media would also be the proper channels to report firms that do not adhere to pollution reduction protocols.