Forests are often called the lungs of our planet, absorbing vast amounts of carbon dioxide and playing a crucial role in regulating the climate. But what happens when mining operations carve through these vital ecosystems? Forests are often called the lungs of our planet, absorbing vast amounts of carbon dioxide and playing a crucial role in regulating the climate. But what happens when mining operations carve through these vital ecosystems? Environment Phys.org – latest science and technology news stories