Coal is a natural resource that is mined in the ground. Coal mining has been happening for a long time, and it still continues to be a major industry in South Africa. Coal mining can be done by hand or with machines, but it always involves digging into the earth to find coal. The first step in the process of refining coal is washing it to remove dirt and rock particles that get mixed up with the coal as it’s being dug out of the ground. Next, coal goes through a process called screening where heavy pieces are removed from lighter pieces so they can all be used for different purposes. Finally, there’s another washing process called dewatering, which removes any water from the coal before it’s ready to be burned or sold.
How much coal is produced in South Africa?
The coal industry in South Africa is one of the most important industries in the country. It has a significant contribution to the country’s GDP and employment. Coal production reached a peak of more than 100 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) before it was surpassed by natural gas, which overtook coal as the dominant fuel for power generation in South Africa. In 2017, coal production was at around 60 Mtpa.
Is South Africa ready for open-cast coal mining?
Open cast coal mining is mining which is usually done in an open pit. The process involves removing the surface layer of the earth in order to get to the coal seams. This form of mining has been around for about 200 years and it has been criticized for its negative impacts on the environment.
The process of open-cast coal mining can devastate the environment. It exposes natural resources, removes vegetation, and destroys wildlife habitats. It also results in air pollution and can cause landslides, floods, and land subsidence.
As a result, open-cast coal mines are often near populated areas because this form of mining is cheaper than other forms such as deep mining or underground coal gasification (UCG).
In South Africa, there are many communities that live near these mines and they have protested against them because they don’t want their homes to be destroyed by these mines.
