Impact
Like anything else taken from the Earth, gold mining has its consequences. Unless careful consideration is given to sustainable development, gold mining can pollute water and land with mercury and cyanide, and endanger the health of people and ecosystems. Gold mining can also displace communities, supplant traditional livelihoods, and endanger natural preserves.
Since gold is so essential in our global society, responsible mining is of great importance. Many companies that sell or facilitate the distribution of gold are committed to responsible mining. Some have joined a campaign called "No Dirty Gold" (NDG), which work to promote the respect of social, human rights, and environmental standards in gold production.
Called the "Golden Rules" the gold mining company must agree to:
... Respect basic human rights
... Get permission from communities that will be affected by the mining ahead of time
... Respect workers' rights and labor laws
... Not dump mine wastes into the ocean, rivers, lakes, or streams
... Not to add to political problems in the area
... Not threaten protected areas of conservation or ecological value
... Not fore communities off of their land to make new mines or expand existing ones
... Not produce sulfuric acid that is not kept under careful control
... Guarantee to contribute any money needed for mine clean-ups or closure
... Support an independent, third party system that makes sure all these rules are followed
Source: courtesy of http://www.nodirtygold.org
Image: courtesy of http://en.wikipedia.org
