The Hidden Environmental Cost of Sand Mining
New study highlights the global impacts of unsustainable sand and gravel extraction on rivers, ecosystems and communities
A new study published in Reviews of Geophysics examines the growing global demand for sand and gravel and its impact on river systems and communities.
Led by Assoc. Prof. Edward Park, leader of the Water Supply & Quality cluster at CCEH, the study reviewed 411 scientific studies to understand where sand and gravel mining occurs, how much is extracted, and its environmental and social impacts. The research also involved Asst. Prof. Jingyu Wang, leader of the Extreme Heat cluster at CCEH, and an international team of researchers.
Sand and gravel are essential for construction and urban development. However, extracting these materials from rivers faster than nature can replace them can cause serious problems, including river erosion, falling groundwater levels, poorer water quality and saltwater entering coastal areas. These changes can also affect ecosystems, infrastructure and the livelihoods of communities that depend on rivers.
The study highlights the need for better monitoring and more sustainable sand and gravel management, including the use of satellite technology and recycled construction materials as alternatives.
The research was recently featured in The Guardian, pointing the growing environmental challenges linked to the global construction boom.
