Fieldnotes
Mining for Minerals—The Environmental Toll of Magnesium and Zinc Production
Magnesium and zinc are vital components in a wide range of products, from dietary supplements and batteries to construction materials and cosmetics. However, the process of extracting these minerals from the earth is anything but benign. Mining operations often involve large-scale land disruption, significant water use, and the release of harmful pollutants into the environment. Moreover, the human cost of mining can be severe, with local communities facing displacement, health risks, and economic exploitation.