The environmental impact of lab diamonds are better versus mined diamonds is an increasingly pressing concern. Sustainability has become a top priority for many in recent years.
The diamond industry has made great strides toward ethical and responsible production practices, but there is still much to learn. Here are some major factors you should take into account before making a purchase:
1. Water Consumption
One of the key distinctions between lab grown diamonds nz and mined diamonds is their water consumption. For every carat of mined diamond, 126 gallons of water is required, while lab-grown diamonds only use 18 gallons.
Additionally, mining produces air pollution as well. A single carat of mined diamond emits over 125 pounds of carbon – more than six times more than a lab-grown diamond!
Another notable distinction between lab-grown and mined diamonds lies in their energy requirements. According to Frost & Sullivan’s research, grown diamonds require 250 million joules of energy per carat, while mined ones require 538.5 million joules.
The diamond industry has long been associated with harsh and illegal practices that have raised environmental issues. Mining companies have often polluted water sources or killed wildlife in their quest to produce more diamonds.
2. Carbon Dioxide Emissions
If you’re seeking a greener engagement ring, lab-grown diamonds may be the way to go. Not only are they more affordable, but they’re also much better for the environment than mined diamonds.
According to Truscott’s report, lab-grown diamonds have a significantly less environmental impact than mined ones. They estimate that carbon emissions from lab-grown diamonds are only 510 kg CO2 per polished carat versus 160kg for mined ones.
However, it is essential to be aware that this comparison was conducted by the Diamond Producers Association on behalf of the diamond industry. Thus, the report may not be completely accurate and doesn’t take into account all aspects of diamond production.
Some companies are making efforts to use renewable energy and capture CO2 from the atmosphere for gem production, but more must make this transition in order to reduce their climate impact. It is up to you as consumers to be mindful of what you purchase and select a company with excellent environmental practices.
3. Air Pollution
Lab-grown diamonds are created by placing carbon seeds from pre-existing diamonds into a greenhouse setting to form gems. However, this process can be highly energy intensive and requires plenty of fossil fuels for operation, leading to significant emissions of carbon pollution associated with its production.
Recent report by Tricots, a consulting firm, revealed that lab-grown diamond production was three times more energy intensive than mined ones. This is because countries like China and Singapore, which rely heavily on fossil fuels for power, use an enormous amount of energy to cultivate diamonds in their laboratories – adding up to significant energy usage.
Conversely, the diamond industry has been accused of engaging in unethical and exploitative mining practices that have given rise to terms such as “blood diamonds.” Therefore, consumers should ensure they purchase sustainable diamonds from companies who do not take part in this damaging practice.
4. Deforestation
Diamond mining has been linked to deforestation and soil erosion around the world, in some cases leading to the collapse of entire ecosystems.
Diamond mining often results in extreme poverty in countries where it takes place, due to workers often being forced into hazardous conditions with low wages.
Miners often contract diseases that spread among them and their families, and children may face abuse or be forced into labour.
Conclusion
Lab-grown diamonds are an environmentally friendly choice to mined diamonds, as they use significantly less water and emit significantly less carbon dioxide.
