Mining is a major primary industry, as are agriculture, forestry
and fisheries, but it differs in that minerals and rocks, once
removed and used, cannot be replaced or regenerated. However,
metals have a unique characteristic: when recycled they retain
their original elemental properties. Some minerals and metals
can be reused and recycled many times over. Since metal mining
in Canada began 150 years ago, less than 0.03% of Canada's
landmass has been used for mining. Of a total area of 1.01
billion ha, fewer than 0.4 million ha (less than half the size
of PEI), are used for mining. Modern mining represents a
temporary use of the land; once the ore deposit is depleted, the
land is reclaimed for other uses, often recreation. Mining
touches every aspect of our lives. Without mined products, all
that would be left of your home is the mortgage. Foundations are
made of minerals, including limestone, sand and gravel. Bricks
and tiles are made of clay; gypsum is used in drywall; windows
contain silica; and paint cont