Describes the gradual transformation of a cleared farm field into a dense forest.

"Mining supplies numerous raw minerals that are essential for economic development. In many cases, however, mineral extraction causes severe destruction of the environment. Large areas can be literally erased by excavation and dumping of overburden. In addition, mining and postprocessing of raw materials may accelerate weathering processes and chemically alter the environment through, for example, acidification or pollution by heavy metals. Environmental...