Experts warn mining boom could accelerate bio­di­ver­si­ty loss

Global demand for minerals used in clean energy technologies is pushing mining operations into some of the world’s most biodiverse regions. Analysis shows that more than 3,200 mining sites are already located within key biodiversity areas across countries such as Indonesia, Brazil, Peru, and Laos, putting wildlife and natural habitats at risk. Victor Maus, a professor at the Vienna University of Economics and Business, warned that the true global footprint of mining is likely much larger than previously estimated and that its environmental impacts have often been overlooked. Experts say stronger environmental protections and limits on mining in sensitive ecosystems are urgently needed to prevent further biodiversity loss.

Source: adapted from The Guardian, March 2026.