Why are lab-grown diamonds sustainable

Lab-grown diamonds are sustainable, meaning they’re environmentally friendly. But why do we say they’re sustainable, or at least much more sustainable than mined gems? To what extent are lab-grown diamonds sustainable? In this article, we analyze many of the aspects to consider when assessing the sustainability of both gemstones of terrestrial origin and those formed under controlled conditions using cutting-edge technologies.

Are lab-grown diamonds a sustainable alternative to mined diamonds?

Lab-grown diamonds are gaining appeal, especially among younger generations, because they offer all the physical, chemical, and optical properties of mined diamonds without the negative consequences of mining. One of the great advantages of laboratory diamonds is their sustainability . But are lab-grown diamonds sustainable? If we’re being methodical, the first thing we need to do is answer that question.

What does ‘sustainability’ mean?

Sustainability does not have a categorical definition, but the concept often refers to the responsible use of a natural resource. From this perspective, diamond mining cannot be considered sustainable. The finite availability of these minerals on Earth means that there will come a day when there will be no more diamonds to extract, as we will have exhausted this resource. In contrast, laboratory-grown diamonds are created using more accessible resources, such as carbon and other gases. The ingredients used in the two main production methods, High Pressure, High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD), are vastly more readily available. Beyond this initial reflection, the mines themselves are a powerful enough argument for the lack of sustainability of the diamonds extracted from them. There is no way to classify mining as a sustainable activity, as it alters the landscape, ecosystems, wildlife, and human communities. For these two main reasons—the finite nature of natural resources and the environmental impact of mining—lab-grown diamonds are considered a sustainable alternative to mined diamonds.

Are lab-grown diamonds sustainable?

Lab-grown diamonds are much more sustainable than mined diamonds. However, it’s important to note that some lab-grown diamonds can have a significant carbon footprint. This is because recreating the high-pressure (up to 70,000 atmospheres) and high-temperature (over 800 degrees Celsius) conditions that naturally occur in diamonds is an energy-intensive process. Some lab-grown diamond companies offset emissions they may generate during production through carbon credits. These credits fund activities such as reforestation, which contributes to carbon capture and helps mitigate environmental impact.

Diamond mines extraction techniques

To understand the damage that diamond mining causes to the environment, one must first understand the various techniques used to extract these precious stones. Diamonds are extracted from primary deposits using two main methods: open-pit and underground mining. In addition, marine mining has gained popularity in recent years.

• Open-pit minin. Large shafts are drilled to depths of up to hundreds of meters. This extraction technique removes sediment accumulated over millions of years, deposited after the initial formation of diamonds. Hundreds of hectares of land are also displaced, which can devastate the natural environment and disrupt fragile ecosystems, sometimes causing irreversible damage.
• Underground mining. This occurs when an open-pit mine has been exhausted or when diamonds are located at such a great depth that they are inaccessible through an open pit. This extraction method is more costly and energy-intensive than open-pit mining.
• Marine mining  This is the appropriate technique for recovering diamonds deposited in marine environments. Large vessels with dredges collect sediment from the seafloor. Once the diamonds are obtained, the remaining sediment is returned to the ocean floor.

Environmental impact of diamond mines

What impact does diamond mining have on the environment?

Energy and carbon dioxide emissions

It’s estimated that mining companies move 250 tons of earth for every carat of diamond extracted. Handling such a considerable amount of material involves significant energy consumption, which is often derived from fossil fuels. Furthermore, maintaining such complex facilities also represents a very high energy consumption. Mining activity results in the release of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. On average, 160 kilograms of greenhouse gases are released for every polished carat of diamond mined. (see S&P Global Trucost study for Diamond Producers Association). With all this data, it is clear that mining activity is not sustainable.

Damage to ecosystems

Diamond mining can cause serious damage to local ecosystems by polluting both soil and water. The consequences are lethal for local communities, livestock, and wildlife.

Impact on the landscape

Both open-pit and underground mining have a significant impact on landscapes. Large cavities in the Earth’s surface alter landscapes and ecosystems, and underground mine shafts and tunnels can affect the natural topography, leading to subsidence and changing soil structure.

Negative consequences on the oceans

Marine mining companies claim that the affected natural environment recovers once the activity ends. However, although most of the sediment removed from the seabed is returned, this process can take years. The long-term consequences are unknown because this practice is relatively new. Environmental activists denounce the impact the use of heavy machinery has on marine life.

For more sustainable diamond mining

Many diamond mines have optimized their techniques to reduce their environmental impact, also encouraged by the emergence of new regulations.

• Carbon-neutral mines. In 2017, De Beers, the largest company in the diamond industry, announced plans to launch a carbon-neutral mine. Carbon neutrality involves emitting the same amount of CO2 into the atmosphere as is removed through other means. This achieves a net-zero balance.
• Trucost Report . The Diamond Producers Association promoted the Trucost study, which attempts to reduce public perceptions of the environmental impact of the traditional diamond industry. Many experts believe this document ignores the entire life cycle of mining, which begins with exploration.

Despite efforts to reduce the carbon footprint and the impact on the natural environment, it’s undeniable that mining cannot be considered sustainable, at least not today. Currently, there’s only one way to extract resources as limited as diamonds: by altering the landscape, moving huge amounts of earth, and consuming a lot of energy.