Mining

PART A

Strip mining: a type of mining where the soil and rock covering the mineral wanted is removed, generally in strips.

Pros

1. Safer than other methods of mining.

2. More efficient in getting the material.

3. Cost of mining this way is much lower compared to other methods.

Cons

1. Destruction of the natural ecosystem.

2. Contamination of water supplies due to excavated material and extraction solvents. 

3. The release of toxins and dust into the air, polluting the environment.

Shaft mining: the method of excavating  vertical or near vertical tunnel from top to bottom with no inital access to the bottom.

Pros

1. Less pollution from this method.

2. Less destruction of the ecosystem.

3. Less contamination of water.

Cons

1. Less efficient than strip mining.

2. More expensive to mine this way.

3. More dangerous, risk of tunnels collapsing and poisonous gases released through the tunnels.

PART B

Spouse of a miner: I would prefer strip mining, as it is safer than shaft mining is.

Owner of a mining company: I would prefer strip mining, as it's more efficient, meaning more money made for the company.

Environmentalist: I would prefer shaft mining, as it's less polluting on the environment than strip mining.

Owner of a nearby ski resort: I would prefer strip mining, as it lowers the risk of tunnels collapsing, causing avalanches.

Politician: I would prefer strip mining, as it    costs less than the alternative, and it's more efficient, meaning gaining money.

PART C

Italy is the largest mining producer of feldspar and pumice, and a leading producer of marble, even though they are poor in mineral resources. The way that that Italy generally mines those materials is through strip mining. Some major quarries of mining are located in the Massa and Carrara areas.