Energy and environmental implications of copper production

Sergio Alvarado, Pedro Maldonado and Iván Jaques

Energy, 1999, vol. 24, issue 4, 307-316

Abstract: Primary copper production is a major activity in the mining sector. It is highly energy-intensive, ranking third in specific energy consumption (SEC) among the five major basic metals (aluminum, copper, iron, lead and zinc) and poses important environmental hazards. We examine the large discrepancy between theoretical (from thermodynamics) and actual (from empirical data) SECs and then describe relevant environmental issues, focusing on the most significant energy-related environmental impacts of primary copper production with emphasis on greenhouse-gas (GHG) emissions. An example of GHG energy-related abatement that concurrently improves energy use is presented.

Date: 1999
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (8)

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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eee:energy:v:24:y:1999:i:4:p:307-316

DOI: 10.1016/S0360-5442(98)00093-0

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