Pros And Cons Of Pebble Mining

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Pebble Mine Pros and Cons: Which Side Are You On? Mineral exploration has been done for centuries, and it is always associated with advantages and disadvantages. The Pebble Mine in the Bristol Bay region of Southwest Alaska is no different. This type of mine involves extraction of low grade copper-gold-molybdenum sulfide deposits. During the world recession, pebble mining was one of those businesses that saved many countries. Unfortunately, it also left behind devastation and long-term environmental effects. List of Pros of Pebble Mining 1. Increase in high paying jobs Pebble mining is nothing new, but its full potential has yet to be discovered. If it is opening job opportunities now the more work that further exploration will offer. The real …show more content…

Whatever tariff earned will then be used to improve essential services, such as education, social security and health care, and assist in construction of schools, hospitals and other essential infrastructure. List of Cons of Pebble Mining 1. Leaves environmental devastation Environmental impact is one of the biggest reasons that people strongly oppose pebble mine. In fact, the Wild Salmon Center and Trout Unlimited have produced a report outlining the significant ecological concerns that are sure to follow a large-scale mine. These include billions of tons of waste rock, very deep and wide open pits, high and long miles of dams, and the production of acid mine drainage, all of which can significantly affect wild salmon fishery. The pits can also become a breeding ground of mosquitoes that would cause illnesses to people living nearby. 2. Economic risks Pebble mining may open plenty of job opportunities, but it can also affect the other side of livelihood. A huge population of Alaska is heavily dependent on fishing, and the damage that pebble mining can cause to the fishing industry is likely to cripple a lot of people and communities. 3. Threat to workers'