Could this replace conventional mining that's harmful to the environment? Conventional metal mining can severely harm the environment, and often involves deforestation of large areas of land. With 10 to 59 tons of emissions per ton of metal, nickel is especially polluting. Conventional mining takes a toll on the environment, as seen here in Indonesia Image: Adobe Stock/ Erberto ZaniPhytomining, on the other hand, is climate-friendly. To replace the current global conventional nickel production entirely, 15 million hectares of fields would be needed — an area the size of Tunisia.