What environmental impact does strip mining often have?

Strip mining is a method of extracting minerals or coal from the earth by removing overburden, or surface layers, to access the material underneath. This type of mining can have severe consequences for the environment, particularly when it comes to the regrowth of native plants.

The reason this choice is correct lies in the nature of strip mining itself. The removal of large areas of soil and vegetation during the mining process disrupts the established ecosystem. This disruption leads to soil compaction, loss of nutrients, and changes in soil composition, which adversely affect the ability of native plants to regrow. Without the protective cover of vegetation, the soil is also more susceptible to erosion and other forms of degradation.

The other options do not accurately reflect the typical effects of strip mining. Improving biodiversity in an area is contrary to what occurs after strip mining, as the habitat is destroyed. While soil fertility may temporarily be affected due to the removal of organic matter and nutrients, it typically decreases rather than increases in mined areas. Lastly, strip mining tends to exacerbate soil erosion rather than reduce it, due to the lack of vegetation and root systems that help anchor soil in place.