Biogeochemical, Health, and Ecotoxicological Perspectives on Gold and Gold Mining

This book examines the effects of gold production and use on human health and the environmental impact of gold mining and extraction. The author provides a thorough risk assessment of gold, including its geological, physical, chemical, and metabolic properties; gold concentrations and field collections of abiotic materials and biota; its effects on plants and animals; health risks for gold miners; and medicinal uses. He explores the environmental effects of extraction, including tailings disposal, acid mine drainage, cyanide, arsenic, and mercury contamination; social, political, economic, and psychological variables; and mining legislation, safety, and procedures.