Theory question 207
Environmental Resources(a) Describe the significance of minerals as an environmental resource (b) Highlight three major problems resulting from the exploitation of mineral resources
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Model answer
(a) Source of fuel and power (petroleum, coal, gas); raw materials for industry (limestone for cement, iron ore); foreign exchange from exports; government revenue; employment; growth of towns and infrastructure (e.g. Jos, Enugu); jewellery and ornaments (gold).
(b) Pollution of land, water and air (oil spills, dust); destruction of farmland and vegetation; land degradation such as mining pits and erosion; health hazards and accidents; displacement of people.
Explanation
Point (a) is about uses; point (b) about harm to the environment and people.