Setting the limits to extraction: A biophysical approach to mining activities

摘要: Abstract While the mining industry is steadfastly committed to goal of increasing extraction minerals, failure recognize existence biophysical constraints results in massive degradation socio-ecological systems. In this paper, we propose an innovative approach for analyzing mineral which links use and management natural resources by means Stock-Flow/Fund-Service model developed Georgescu-Roegen. Mining a productive process that not only depletes minerals ores but also affects other are needed maintain life-supporting processes over time. The central claim need recognizing limits order manage as irreplaceable providers ecosystem services. By providing new conceptualization operationalizing services based on model, intend challenge current extractivist narrative assumes unregulated practices, monetary indicators, technological advancements substitutable resources. We argue activities should depend evaluation effects these environment. Furthermore, social deliberation required determine whether occur what extent it socially acceptable while still maintaining integrity