Scientists outline the urgency to better identify the significant damage sand extraction across the world heaps upon marine biodiversity.
The Hidden Threat of Sand Extraction
A team of international scientists, writing in One Earth, has highlighted the extensive damage caused by sand extraction on marine biodiversity. As the most extracted solid material by mass, sand plays a crucial role in human development, yet its environmental impact remains largely unnoticed. Jianguo “Jack” Liu, a senior researcher from Michigan State University, emphasizes the need for a systematic approach to understanding sand mining’s far-reaching consequences. Unlike other extractive industries such as deep-sea mining, sand dredging has not received significant attention, despite being the second most common human activity in coastal regions after fishing.
Environmental Consequences of Sand Mining
Sand mining is increasingly linked to coastal erosion, habitat destruction, and disruptions to marine ecosystems. The extraction process disturbs underwater habitats, affecting species by clouding water, smothering coral reefs, and altering wave patterns. Lead researcher Aurora Torres from the University of Alicante stresses that sand should not be viewed as an abundant, inert material but as an essential component of coastal and marine ecosystems. Given its connection to climate resilience and biodiversity loss, integrating sand management into broader environmental policies is critical for sustainable resource use.
Call for Global Recognition and Action
Torres and Liu first raised concerns about sand extraction in a 2017 Science paper, A Looming Tragedy of the Sand Commons. In their latest publication, they argue that sand mining must be given the same level of attention as industries like fishing and tourism. Strengthening data collection, improving governance, and linking sand extraction to pressing environmental challenges are key to fostering responsible management. Torres warns that as climate change intensifies threats to coastal communities, the urgency to regulate sand mining will only grow. Their research, supported by multiple institutions, calls for global awareness and policy interventions to mitigate the industry’s impact on marine biodiversity.
Story Source:
Michigan State University
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/02/250221125245.htm
References
Aurora Torres, Jean-Baptiste Jouffray, Vera Van Lancker, Arnaud Vander Velpen, Jianguo Liu. (2025). Reducing sand mining’s growing toll on marine biodiversity. One Earth, , 8 (2): 101202 DOI: 10.1016/j.oneear.2025.101202.
News By:
Suebat Oluwakemi Mustapha