This paper discusses, in the light of the paradigms of political ecology and environmental justice, social, environmental and public health impacts resulting from the mining process in the city of Itamarati de Minas-MG, Brazil. The objectives are understanding risks and social and environmental vulnerability, as well as the seizure of conflicts and environmental injustice scenarios in this economic activity. The first part briefly presents some features of the current model of mineral exploration and subordinate worldwide integration of territories such as the municipality of Itamarati de Minas. Then there is a description of the study area and the sources and methods used at work; then the results of the interviews are presented. It was noticed that the bauxite mining process is impacting the environment and the community ways of life; likewise, it acts negatively in the health production process and disease, damaging a health promotion situation.
collective health; environmental health; mining; environmental justice