Stone Quarrying: Impact on Groundwater and Suitable Mitigation Measures

The rapid expansion of stone mining activities worldwide has raised concerns about potential adverse effects on groundwater resources, a vital component of ecosystems and human well-being. The global stone mining industry’s carbon footprint is exacerbated by the energy-intensive nature of extraction and transportation processes, contributing to climate change. The extraction process, encompassing activities such as quarrying and processing, leads to various environmental repercussions. This section examines the complex effects of run-off from stone mining, which includes sediments, chemicals and heavy metals, on groundwater. This includes alterations in the aquifer’s quantity, quality and general health. In addition, the chapter would also emphasise the necessity for sustainable mining practices, effective land reclamation and stringent environmental regulations to mitigate these adverse effects. This abstract underlines the necessity for sustainable mining practices, effective land reclamation and stringent environmental regulations to minimise these adverse effects.