Discussion Case: Digging Gold

Questions:

1. Using the classification system presented in the chapter section "Major Areas of Environmental Regulation," explain what type(s) of pollution is (are) generated by gold mining. Which of these do you think is (are) most damaging to the environment, and why?

2. Using the classification system presented in the chapter section "Alternative Policy Approaches," explain what type(s) of government regulation would most effectively address the concerns you identified in question 1.

3. In your view, what role should nongovernmental organizations (NG0s) and citizen movements play in reducing the adverse environmental impacts of gold mining?

4. Which of the gold mining companies mentioned in this case are more-or less-environmentally responsible? What factors, in your view, might cause these differences?