Effects of Gold Mining on the Environment | Sciencing
Effects of Gold Mining on the Environment. Although its price fluctuates, gold regularly sells for more than 1,000 per ounce. Gold nuggets are popular among collectors but are rare; most gold is found as small particles buried in gold ore. Mining just an ounce of gold from ore can result in 20 tons of solid waste and significant mercury and cyanide contamination, according to Earthworks.