Geography | DAAD  Metalscapes: How mining has shaped metal(loid) distribution in the Atacama Desert.

While the energy transition era demands a focus on responsible resource extraction, the research project delves deeper by examining the lasting environmental and human costs associated with mining activities. His former studies explored the temporal and spatial impact of mining on the Atacama Desert, a region with a long history of copper extraction. Utilizing diverse environmental matrices like sediment dust, surface soil, and even tree rings, the project aimed to paint a multi-dimensional picture of mining's consequences. This research shed light on the often-underestimated risks indigenous communities face and uncovered evidence of potential local negligence. These findings highlight the detrimental effects on the environment and residents' well-being, particularly their health. Building upon this foundation, the current research interest lies in understanding how this environmental burden, specifically metal pollution, might influence children's cognitive development in these mining areas. By investigating this crucial link, the study contributes to a more nuanced understanding of the actual cost of mining and informs policies that prioritize the health and well-being of future generations.

PhD Project: Nicolás C. Zanetta Colombo
Funding: DAAD
Duration: 2019-2023