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Volcanoes - AQABenefits of living by a volcano

Composite and shield volcanoes are found along plate margins. They have distinctive characteristics and can have both positive and negative effects on people and the landscape.

Part of GeographyThe challenge of natural hazards

Benefits of living by a volcano

A man works in a field with Mount Mayon in the distance.
Figure caption,
A man works in a field with Mount Mayon in the distance.

People choose to live in volcanic areas despite the risks of an eruption. Volcanoes can provide people with many benefits such as:

  • volcanic rock and ash provide fertile land which results in a higher crop yield for farmers
  • tourists are attracted to the volcano, which increases money to the local economy
  • geothermal energy can be harnessed, which provides cheaper electricity for locals
  • minerals are contained in lava, eg diamonds - these can be mined to make money