The following discussion describes how mining operations violate theses fundamental human rights. The environmental effects of mining operations are significant and wide-ranging. Natural ecosystems that may exist overtop a mineral deposit are stripped away. Roads that are constructed in order to transport ore, workers and supplies further fragment huge expanses of forested land, making these areas susceptible to landless peasants and other resource extractors. Further damage is caused in the construction of infrastructural support including power lines, worker camps and transportation facilities.
Mining operations are significant sources of water contamination.
The mining process involves the extraction of ore, rock that contains a valuable mineral. Once extracted, the mineral-bearing ore is crushed and treated with chemicals and other extraction processes in order to separate out the mineral. The remaining rock is referred to as tailings. Tailings often contain heavy metals, acid-forming minerals and residue of the toxic chemicals that are used in the extraction process, including cyanide and sulfuric acid. Tailings are normally stored in containment areas or ponds.