Metal extraction is one of the most Earth-intrusive industrial activities. Mineral engineers need to be fully cognizant of upstream (raw materials) and downstream (products) effects of their activities.

Dispersive uses of metals should be phased out and post-use material/energy recovery must increase: Advantage for processes that can use as feedstock both “virgin” and recycled materials, such as scrap and waste streams.

Source: N, Themelis, Industrial Ecology and Metal Production, Earth Engineering Center, Columbia University. Presentation at Minprex 2000, Melbourne, September 11-13
Presentation