In Brazil, mining is centered on gold, copper, tin, iron and bauxite. The Carajas iron ore project uses wood to power it iron plants resulting in an annual deforestation of 6100 km squared.
Mercury is used in gold mining. The mercury is toxic and 90% of fish caught in the gold mining region surrounding the River Tapajos are contaminated with mercury. It can cause cancer if eaten and high miscarriage rates among the local tribes.
In the state of Roraima there are conflicts between gold prospectors and the local people.
Cyanide is used yo separate gold from sediment. It's supposed to be monitored carefully but when spills do occur it can cause death to wildlife and pollution of water.
Accidents can occur during the process such as landslides, incidents with machinery and explosions which have high human costs.
Waste from mines can be deposited in rivers or lakes due to high rainfall which can damage eco-systems and wildlife.
Inhalation of coal dust can cause lung damage and build-up of toxic metals it can cause cancer.
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