The Gold Crush

Economic Geography

Dr. Martin

December 4, 2009

The Gold Crush

The price of gold is reaching historic highs as people hoard all the gold they can in the current weak economy. Gold is currently selling at a rate of $1213 per ounce continues to rise. People are now investing in gold rather than stocks because of this rise but do not know gold mining is a dirty industry. If these people were informed of the hidden facts behind gold mining they would be outraged by the impacts of the industry. Dirty gold mining creates social, economic, and environmental problems for the state and local communities where it takes place. This paper will explore the consequences of dirty gold mining practices as well as give examples how federal governments do not do enough to stop it. So much is being done to change the way we use and treat the Earth to sustain the planet and the gold mining industry contradicts these improvements. Environmental impacts of gold mining this paper will cover, include poisoned waters, air pollution, solid waste, and threatened natural areas. Some social and economic impacts will be investigated but are not the focus of this paper. This paper should provide the necessary information to form an opinion on whether or not gold mining is a viable industry in the coming years. Should destruction of the earth continue for a mineral that has little purpose or use?

One of the foremost environmental impacts of gold mining is the poisoned water systems surrounding major gold mines. According to nodirtygold.org long term gold mining can lead to acid mine drainage. This increase in acid levels in rivers and streams can be harmful to wildlife and humans. Most mines store the waste product known as tailings in large reservoirs and if they leak or burst a large amount of cyanide can enter into water resources. Large amounts of cyanide can be fatal to ecosystems. The documentary known as Inheritance looks into this situation and shows the real world...