Mining is the production of various minerals or metals such as coal, gold, copper, silver or platinum to name a few. Mining these different commodities leads to many valuable and innovative developments. Powering hybrid vehicles, investments, jewelry, solar panels, various medical advancements and heat suppression are all powered through many of the metals and minerals found in mining. Some people feel that we as individuals have a responsibility to leave the Earth as it is and not live off of its resources. Some place on the other hand try and combat the usage of said resource by replenishing what is used. In many instances after mines are used up, the areas are repacked with soil and/or rock and over time, you would not believe that a mine had been previously in certain areas. Often times, mine reclamation is planned out prior to the area being turned into a mining ground.
19 Awe-Inspiring Aerial Images of the World's Mega Mines by WhenOnEarth.com
This presentation of some of the world's largest mines are very informative and shocking to see.