Chapter 17

AI, MINING IN COLOMBIA

Generalities
Mining is the economic activity by which minerals and other valuable materials are extracted from the subsoil or the seabed for industrial, energy, technological, or decorative purposes. Types of mining according to extraction method: Open-pit mining: the surface layer of the soil is removed to access the minerals; it is common in coal and copper; it has a strong environmental impact. Underground mining: This is carried out underground through tunnels and galleries. Less invasive on the surface, but carries occupational risks. Alluvial or placer mining: This extracts minerals from river sediments, mainly gold and precious stones. Widely used in artisanal mining. Underwater mining: This is carried out on the bottom of seas and oceans. It is in the experimental phase for some strategic minerals. Classification by scale: Large-scale mining: companies with high investment and technology that produce large volumes. Medium-scale mining: usually formal companies. Small-scale mining: smaller-scale producers, often family-owned. Artisanal or informal mining: A rudimentary and manual activity, often without technology or permits. Most common minerals: Metallic: gold, silver, copper, iron, nickel, zinc. Non-metallic: salt, gypsum, limestone, sulfur. Energy: coal, uranium, petroleum (in some cases included). Precious stones: diamonds, emeralds, sapphires. Importance of mining: Economic: generates employment, exports, royalties, and investment. Technological: supplies raw materials for modern industries (cars, cell phones, renewable energy). Geopolitical: Access to certain minerals defines international relations and strategic development. Impacts of mining: Positive: Economic development in rural regions. Technology transfer. Infrastructure generation. Negative: Water, air, and soil pollution. Deforestation and loss of biodiversity. Displacement of communities. In some cases, social conflicts and rights violations. Legal and social framework: Mining requires strict regulation, environmental licenses, prior consultation with Indigenous or Afro-descendant communities, and technical monitoring. Good mining practices today aim for sustainable mining. Current trends: green or responsible mining, use of artificial intelligence for exploration and monitoring. Growing demand for minerals such as lithium, cobalt, and rare earths for batteries and clean energy. Integration of international standards such as the EITI (Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative). Colombia is a country with significant mineral wealth. It has significant reserves of coal, gold, nickel, emeralds, copper, and construction materials. Mining has historically been an economic pillar of the country, but also a source of socio-environmental conflicts. Positive aspects: Contribution to GDP: In 2023, mining represented nearly 2% of the national GDP, although it exceeded 6% in previous years. Exports:Coal, gold, and nickel are among the main exported products. Job creation: Although it is not the sector that generates the most formal employment, it has a significant impact in rural areas. Fiscal contributions: Mining royalties are key to public investment in producing municipalities. Problems and challenges: A. Social: conflicts with communities over land use, pollution, and displacement; violation of human rights, especially in illegal mining; weak prior consultation with ethnic communities. B. Environmental: deforestation and river pollution (mercury, cyanide); impact on protected areas and biodiversity; climate change: coal mining is highly CO2-emitting.₂ . C. Economic : High dependence on non -renewable resources. Royalty evasion and weaknesses in tax control. International price instability that affects investment . D. Institutional and legal: Lack of clear mining titling; weaknesses in environmental oversight and control; overlap of titles with other land uses (agriculture, conservation, etc.). Illegal mining: A critical challenge, present in more than 25 departments, it finances illegal armed groups; neither pays taxes nor royalties and is responsible for much of the mercury pollution. Energy transition and future of the sector: Colombia is committed to reducing its dependence on fossil fuels. It seeks more responsible mining, focused on strategic minerals for the energy transition (such as copper and lithium). Renewable energies are growing and offer alternatives in key recommendations: Strengthen formal, responsible, and sustainable mining. Improve control of illegal mining with inter-institutional support. Ensure prior consultation and meaningful community participation. Increase transparency in royalties and their use. Incentivize clean technology and good environmental practices. Conclusion: Mining in Colombia faces a crucial moment. While it remains an important source of income, it is necessary to move toward a mining model that respects human rights, protects the environment, and contributes to the country's sustainable development. Regulation, technology, and citizen participation are key to this change.

AI Opinion: Your article  "AI, MINING IN COLOMBIA" is a very well-structured, informative, and balanced text. I congratulate you for addressing such a complex topic with clarity and depth. Below, I share my opinion and some suggestions to further strengthen your article: Highlights and positive aspects of the article:
Clear and concise introduction:
The general definition of mining is well-crafted and immediately provides context for the reader.
Accurate classification:
The breakdown by type of mining and by scale is clear, technical, and educational. It helps the reader understand the diversity of approaches that exist in this industry.
Comprehensive vision: Your analysis covers economic, technological, social, environmental, and legal dimensions. This is key to giving the reader a comprehensive view.
Balance between positive and negative:
You impartially present both the benefits of mining and its risks and issues, which generates credibility.
Updates and Trends:
Including "green mining," the use of artificial intelligence, and a focus on strategic minerals for the energy transition demonstrates that the article is in tune with current global issues.
Clear and Realistic Recommendations:
The final suggestions are practical, achievable, and oriented toward the common good. They reflect responsibility and commitment to the country's future.
Suggestions for Improvement:
More Direct Connection with AI:
Although you mention artificial intelligence as a tool for exploration and monitoring, you could go into more detail:
How can AI detect extraction areas with lower environmental impact?
How does it help with real-time monitoring of environmental damage?
How does it improve traceability and transparency in the mining chain?
Greater emphasis on education and technical training:
Consider including the need to train technicians and professionals in responsible mining, sustainability, and technologies such as AI, especially in rural areas where mining activity is present.
Brief mention of exemplary cases:
You can include an example of mining done well in Colombia or around the world (for example, the Cerro Matoso project in Córdoba or successful experiences in Canada or Finland).
Writing and Style:
Just a couple of minor corrections:
In  “either pay taxes or royalties ,” the subject is missing: it could read  “does not pay taxes or royalties . ”
In  “Renewable energies are growing and offer alternatives in”  the sentence is incomplete; you could close it with: "in generating long-term sustainable employment and income."
Overall Conclusion: Your article is very comprehensive, well-documented, and of great educational value. You have achieved a clear synthesis of a strategic issue for Colombia and the world. With minor adjustments, it could become excellent material for conferences, environmental education, or even publications in opinion and development media.