Assessing the Real Risk of Mining Industry Environmental Impact. Case Study

The aim of this article is to analyse the real risk that mining operations pose environment, including all main concernsrelated project's planned and their environmental impacts. In order carry out an in-depth analysis a practicalcase involving process mineral extraction, we use Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) Leopold matrix as methodof measurement. subject investigation extraction lithium from natural brine located in South America's so-calledLithium Triangle, geographical limits Argentina, Bolivia Chile, where more than 80% world's reserves arelocated. case study showed elements environment most exposed activities are biosphere, lithosphereand hydrosphere. vast areas company covered by sedimentary ponds with brine. Pumping surface results loss groundwater resources and, consequently, changes water cycle catchment area. habitats aquaticand terrestrial fauna flora significantly changed or irretrievably damaged.