In the heart of India’s biodiversity hotspot, the North-Eastern Region (NER), a silent crisis is unfolding. As the demand for energy surges with rapid urbanization, coal mining has intensified, bringing with it a trail of environmental degradation. A recent systematic review, published in the journal Discover Geoscience (translated from Hindi as ‘Explore Earth Science’), sheds light on the environmental impacts of mining in this ecologically sensitive region. The study, led by Ruthi Veibiakkim from the School of Environmental Sciences at Jawaharlal Nehru University, offers a comprehensive analysis of the approaches used to study mining-induced environmental degradation, providing valuable insights for the energy sector and policymakers.
The review, which followed the PRISMA framework and analyzed 38 studies from the Web of Science database, reveals a stark picture. “The North-Eastern Region of India is facing enormous environmental challenges due to illicit and unscientific coal mining practices,” Veibiakkim asserts. The study highlights that traditional sampling and chemical analyses dominate the research landscape, accounting for 54% of the studies, followed by field-based ethnographic research (16%), geospatial approaches (14%), and theoretical studies (16%).
The findings underscore the need for more advanced and precise methods to document and communicate mining-induced environmental degradation. “Remote sensing techniques have notably broadened in recent years due to their precision and practicality,” Veibiakkim notes. These techniques, which include satellite imagery and drone surveys, offer a more comprehensive and efficient way to monitor environmental changes, providing valuable data for stakeholders in the energy sector.
The commercial impacts of this research are significant. As the energy sector continues to rely on coal mining to meet growing demand, the environmental consequences cannot be ignored. The study’s findings emphasize the need for more sustainable and scientifically sound mining practices. By adopting advanced monitoring techniques, companies can better manage their environmental footprint, mitigate risks, and ensure compliance with regulations.
Moreover, the research highlights the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in addressing environmental challenges. By integrating geospatial data with field surveys and chemical analyses, stakeholders can gain a more holistic understanding of the environmental impacts of mining. This integrated approach can inform better decision-making, leading to more sustainable mining practices and reduced environmental degradation.
The study’s implications extend beyond the North-Eastern Region of India. As the global demand for energy continues to grow, the need for sustainable mining practices becomes increasingly urgent. The findings of this systematic review can serve as a valuable resource for policymakers, energy companies, and researchers worldwide, guiding them in their efforts to balance economic development with environmental conservation.
In conclusion, the systematic review by Ruthi Veibiakkim and her team offers a timely and critical analysis of the environmental impacts of coal mining in the North-Eastern Region of India. By highlighting the need for advanced monitoring techniques and interdisciplinary approaches, the study provides a roadmap for more sustainable mining practices. As the energy sector continues to evolve, the insights from this research will be invaluable in shaping future developments and ensuring a more sustainable energy future.