SANTOS, C. A.; SANTOS, Climério Alves dos.
Resumo:
This article aims to analyze the environmental impacts of exploitation of kaolin in the city of Ecuador-
RN. Discusses the existing dynamic as the extraction and processing of kaolin in the city, where on the
one hand, mineral exploration is part of the productive context and brings local economic benefits; on
the other hand, brings negative environmental impacts, which is the guiding principle of this research.
Data collection was conducted through field visits, with observations of environmental impacts and
photographic records. With the results realized that workers are exposed to various risks, because there
is no adequate equipment for individual or collective use, however, undergo for being this one of the
main economic activities among others and source of income and municipal employment. With regard
to the environment, it was found that this activity causes environmental impacts, among which stand
out soil degradation, water pollution, deforestation with devastation of the natural landscape, as well
as damage to the health of miners causing diseases that impossible to carry out other activities. Given
this situation, it is necessary that business of mining companies seek ways to lessen the environmental
impact on kaolin extraction, but also to promote the use of techniques that have better conditions for
the miners do their jobs.