Economic Viability and Sustainability of Extraction Processes

Understand economic viability as the cost-effectiveness of extracting a metal. It is determined by factors such as the concentration of the metal in the ore, costs of energy and environmental impacts.
Recognise that when a metal is abundant and easily extractable from its ore, it is economically viable to mine and extract.
However, when metal deposits are not easily accessible or extracted, the economic viability diminishes.
Understand that sustainability is about causing as little harm as possible to the environment. In metal extraction, this includes using processes that produce fewer harmful byproducts and more efficient energy usage.
Realise the importance of recycling metals. It uses less energy compared to extracting the same amount of metal from an ore, making it more sustainable and economically viable.
Acknowledge that the use of bioleaching and phytomining increases the sustainability of metal extraction. These methods reduce the need for traditional mining techniques that can harm ecosystems.
Remember the impact on local communities when considering economic viability and sustainability. Mining can cause pollution and health problems for local people, affecting the overall cost and sustainability of extraction.
Understand that lower-grade ores are less economically viable to extract from because they contain less of the desired metal, increasing the extraction costs.
Know that economic viability and sustainability often work hand-in-hand. For example, extraction processes that are less damaging to the environment often also result in lower energy costs.
Study how legislation and regulation impacts the economic viability and sustainability of metal extraction. Laws may enforce more sustainable methods, or protect certain areas, affecting the cost and method of extraction.
Recognise that advancements in technology can improve both the economic viability and sustainability of metal extraction by making processes more efficient and less harmful.