EIN-2.K—Describe natural resource extraction through mining

Describe natural resource extraction through mining.

• As the more accessible ores are mined to depletion, mining operations are forced to access lower grade ores. Accessing these ores requires increased use of resources that can cause increased waste and pollution.
• Surface mining is the removal of large portions of soil and rock, called overburden, in order to access the ore underneath. An example is strip mining, which removes the vegetation from an area, making the area more susceptible to erosion.
• Enduring understanding EIN-2: When humans use natural resources, they alter natural systems.