miniere

Minière is a French term that appears primarily as an adjective and, less commonly, as a noun, related to mining. In adjective form, minière is the feminine of minier and is used to describe things connected with mining, such as l'industrie minière (the mining industry), des carrières minières (mining quarries), or techniques minières. As a noun, the form minière can refer to a person employed in mining—a female miner—although many texts simply use mineur for the worker when gender is unspecified.

The concept encompasses the exploration, extraction, and processing of mineral resources. Mining operations range from open-pit and underground extraction to ore processing, smelting, and refining. The industry is historically significant for fuel, metals, and materials, supporting industrialization and urban development in many regions.

Geographically, mining activities occur worldwide, with major historical hubs in Europe, the Americas, and Asia. Regions rich in coal, metal ores, and gemstones have driven the evolution of mining technology, safety standards, and environmental regimes.

Environmental and social impacts are central to contemporary discussions of mining. Issues include landscape alteration, water use, tailings management, emissions, indigenous rights, and workforce safety. Modern mining often emphasizes sustainability, reclamation of former sites, and regulatory oversight to mitigate harm and improve community outcomes.

See also: mining, mining industry, ore, mineral processing.