Is Portland Stone Still Quarried?

Portland Stone is still quarried on the Isle of Portland, but Albion Stone, the largest supplier of Portland Stone, no longer engages in quarrying. Instead, they made a pivotal switch to mining in 2002 and have been exclusively mining for over a decade. This change was driven by several factors, with the substantial environmental benefits of mining being the most significant.

Mining offers a considerably lower embodied carbon footprint compared to traditional quarrying. This is primarily because mining eliminates the need to remove the overburden—the layer of soil and rubble above the stone—which in turn drastically reduces diesel consumption. By avoiding the removal of this overburden, mining significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions. This environmentally friendly approach aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and reduces Albion Stone's overall impact on the environment.

Beyond carbon emissions, mining also minimizes the disruption to local wildlife and communities. Traditional quarrying often leaves large, unsightly scars on the landscape, which can be detrimental to local ecosystems and an eyesore for nearby residents. In contrast, mining operations are much less intrusive, preserving the natural beauty of the area and maintaining habitats for wildlife. This helps ensure a healthier balance between industrial activity and nature as our mining operations are considered as key hole surgery for the Island.

Albion Stone has taken additional steps to monitor and enhance local wildlife above our mining sites and historic mining sites. We have conducted various surveys, including studies of bird populations, butterflies, and lichens, which have been shared with Dorset Council. These surveys have revealed a thriving ecosystem, with a notable increase in the rare Common Blue Butterfly and the now red-listed Skylarks. The Skylark population, which has been in decline across the UK, is flourishing in the conditions created by Albion Stone’s mining operations.

Furthermore, mining has allowed Albion Stone to access extensive reserves of Portland Stone that would have been unreachable through traditional quarrying techniques. This strategic shift ensures a robust supply of Portland Stone for many years to come, meeting the ongoing demand for this highly valued material.

In summary, while Portland Stone is still quarried on the Isle of Portland, Albion Stone has transitioned to mining to leverage its significant environmental and operational benefits. This shift not only supports sustainable practices but also guarantees the continued availability of high-quality Portland Stone for future generations.

Tags: Portland Stone Mining Quarrying Environment