Environmental and Health Impacts of Gypsum Mining
Research suggests gypsum mining can lead to habitat destruction, water contamination, soil degradation, geologic hazards, air pollution, and socioeconomic issues. For example, open-pit mining removes topsoil, threatening biodiversity, especially in unique ecosystems like karst landscapes. Water contamination from dissolved gypsum can harm aquatic life, while dust from mining operations may cause respiratory problems for nearby communities.