For years, humanity has heavily relied on the usage of fossil fuels, in fact, 81 percent of the total energy used in the U.S. is extracted from oil, coal, and natural gas. This energy is being utilized to heat and provide electricity to run homes, businesses, cars, and factories. 

Unfortunately, the excessive use of the Earth's natural resources is leaving us at risk of depletion of these necessities and poses a threat to all life and our human existence. With measurable harm to planet Earth, Scientists have begun searching for new solutions to fossil fuel problems in order to sustain human life.

One alternative that is being studied and considered is the mining and usage of mineral carbonation. Although anything may seem better when compared to fossil fuels and their harmful impact, mineral carbonation is not a solution and has proven to be time-consuming, expensive, and causes harm to our soil, air, and water. 

Land Clearing and Harm to Soil

With fossil fuels contributing to low-quality soil and erosion, mineral carbonation, and mining do not seem to be beneficial. The material required involves displacing millions of tonnes of rock, earth, and soil which escalates the potential for sedimentation, erosion, and loss of habitat. 

In the event that this method is used, there would be an increased need for land rehabilitation. This would involve the reshaping of landform due to the volume of tailing which would be larger than the mined rock and in this sense, this method would be unsustainable.

For environmental benefits, sustainable energy sources can provide economic advantages such as job creation and reduced energy costs in the long run. Investing in renewable energy can also lead to new opportunities for innovative technologies and advancements in the energy sector.

 

The Impact on Air and Water

This can have serious consequences for aquatic life and drinking water sources. Moreover, mining dust can also pose serious health risks for humans, particularly those living in close proximity to the mining sites. Dust particles can cause respiratory problems as well. In addition, excessive dust can reduce visibility, particularly in areas where mining operations are close to roads and highways.

The Impact on Time and Money

 A final note on mineral carbonation and mining

In order to use natural resources effectively for mankind, we must take into account all facets of the situation, as disturbing the environment can cause a number of adverse consequences. Cyanide spills, destruction of wildlife habitats, and fish kills are all "side effects" of mining on public lands in the West and can be found all over the world.

In summary, mineral carbonation is a process by which minerals are converted into carbon dioxide through a chemical reaction. This process is becoming increasingly popular as a way of reducing carbon dioxide emissions. 

While mineral carbonation may appear to be a better alternative to fossil fuels, it has not been proven to be a solution; instead, it has been shown to be an expensive, time-consuming, and environmentally damaging process. 

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