Bauxite mining is the process of extracting bauxite ore, which is the primary source of aluminum. This ore is typically found in tropical and subtropical regions, where it forms from the weathering of aluminum-rich rocks. The mining process involves removing the topsoil and overburden to access the bauxite deposits, followed by crushing and washing the ore to separate it from impurities. Once extracted, bauxite is refined through the Bayer process to produce alumina, which is then smelted to create aluminum. This industry plays a crucial role in the global supply chain for aluminum products, impacting sectors such as construction, transportation, and packaging.