Mineral resources, environmental issues, and land use

Science
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Abstract

Contrary to predictions from the 1950s through the mid-1980s, persistent shortages of nonfuel minerals have not occurred, despite prodigious consumption, and world reserves have increased. Global availability of raw materials is relevant to policy decisions regarding mineral development and land use. Justification for environmental protection may exceed that for mining a specific ore body. Demand for environmental accountability is rising worldwide, and new technologies are enabling internalization of costs. Mineral-rich developing nations plagued by inefficient state-owned mining enterprises, high population growth rates, and environmental degradation could realize substantial benefit by reforming government policies to encourage foreign investment in resources and by appropriate allocation of mineral rents.
Publication type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Title Mineral resources, environmental issues, and land use
Series title Science
DOI 10.1126/science.268.5215.1305
Volume 268
Issue 5215
Year Published 1995
Language English
Publisher American Association for the Advancement of Science
Description 8 p.
First page 1305
Last page 1312
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