Environmental Impacts of the Bingham Canyon Mine

¹ Ontario Secondary School Diploma, Shandong, 266000, China
² Shanghai United International School Pudong-Sanlin Campus, Shanghai, 201103, China
³ College of Land Resources and Surveying and Mapping Engineering, Shandong Agriculture And Engineering University, Zibo, 251100, China

^* Corresponding author: yifeiw32@outlook.com

Abstract

Mining and extraction have spurred economic growth in recent years but have also led to ecological damage. This research explores the environmental impacts of the Bingham Mine, in Utah, USA, by processing remote sensing satellite data to portray changes in the surrounding environment. The method utilizes the NDVI to visualize changes in vegetation cover. This research found that the Bingham Mine’s mining activities have significantly impacted the surrounding environment, necessitating a collective effort for restoration. Pollution mitigation and active restoration efforts are proposed solutions. Revegetation may involve assessing suitable plant species, soil remediation, and establishing native or non-invasive vegetation to support future ecological communities. The local Utah government should prioritize monitoring the mine’s operations to ensure compliance with environmental regulations, including proper waste disposal, wastewater treatment, and pollution reduction. This paper seeks to highlight the lesser-known impacts of mining activities, and then suggest possible solutions to achieve more sustainable means of extraction.