Open-pit mining is a surface mining technique used to extract valuable minerals and resources from the earth. In this method, large holes, or pits, are dug into the ground to reach deposits of materials like gold, copper, or coal. The process involves removing layers of soil and rock, known as overburden, to access the ore beneath. This mining approach is often chosen for its efficiency and cost-effectiveness, as it allows for the extraction of large quantities of material at once. However, open-pit mining can have significant environmental impacts, including habitat destruction and soil erosion, which require careful management and regulation.