Sustainability issues associated with ore extraction, trade and processing
Mining, shipping and refining metal ores all create serious environmental and social problems. These sustainability costs appear at every stage of the supply chain, not just at the mine itself.
Real World
Apple's iPhone supply chain illustrates the problem: cobalt mined in the Democratic Republic of Congo under dangerous, poorly regulated conditions is shipped to China for processing, then assembled into devices sold worldwide — with environmental and social costs hidden at each stage.
Exam Focus
Distinguish extraction, trade, and processing as separate stages — examiners reward answers that address sustainability issues across the full supply chain, not just at the mine.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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