China relies heavily on artificial sand. Why does that matter?
China's construction industry has shifted to using 80% artificial sand, which has significant environmental and economic implications. Natural sand is becoming scarce due to over-extraction, leading to this reliance on manufactured alternatives. While artificial sand helps sustain the booming construction industry, its production is energy-intensive and contributes to pollution, raising concerns about long-term sustainability.
This shift also affects local economies, especially in regions where natural sand mining was once prevalent. For instance, the over-extraction of natural sand has led to the degradation of riverbeds and coastlines, harming aquatic ecosystems. The production of artificial sand, on the other hand, involves crushing rocks and other materials, which can result in dust pollution and increased energy consumption. Balancing the demand for construction materials with environmental protection remains a complex challenge for China.
