Small-scale mining can be defined as mining practiced by individuals, small groups or communities. It can have some mechanization, or it can purely be manual and on a very small-scale. In a lot of countries, small-scale mining is differentiated from artisanal mining by the presence of fixed installations. Small-scale mining has low productivity and has negative consequences on the environment. However, it’s a sector full of paradox. It produces 85% of the world's gemstone and 20% of all gold. Small-scale mines provide jobs and income for 25 - 30 million of the world's poorest people.
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