Abstract: Against the backdrop of sustained growth in China’s energy demand and the progressive exhaustion of coal resources in eastern mining districts, coal-bearing regions in Northwest China are assuming an increasingly important role in maintaining long-term energy supply stability. Nevertheless, coal extraction in this region is inherently constrained by fragile geological settings, which pose fundamental challenges to large-scale, deep, and long-duration mining activities. As mining disturbances accumulate over time, tensions between coal exploitation and the regional geological-environmental system continue to intensify. In this context, this study focuses on the coupled responses of key Earth system components, including the lithosphere, hydrosphere, ecosphere and atmosphere, to coal mining disturbances. Drawing on the conceptual framework of Earth system science, geological safeguard requirements and implementation pathways for loss-reducing coal mining are proposed. First, it provides an in-depth analysis of the effects of coal mining on Earth's multi-spheres and clarifies the relationship between Earth system science and coal mining. Second, from the perspectives of Earth system science, such as holism, dynamism, quantification, and systematization, it innovates the geological support requirements for low-impact coal mining in terms of geological survey methods, evaluation of geological elements, evolution of geological conditions, and sustainable development of geological resources. Finally, by integrating multi-scale and multi-approach exploration and observation technologies, a geological survey method and a three-dimensional dynamic monitoring model covering the entire coal mining lifecycle are established. Utilizing massive, multi-source, and diverse measured data, a multi-sphere coupling model is constructed to quantitatively analyze the dynamic evolution of geological elements during coal mining, thereby building a supply-side-guided guarantee system for minimizing mining-induced damage. From a methodological standpoint, Earth system science offers an effective framework for interpreting the interconnected responses of multiple Earth system components induced by coal mining, while mining activities provide a natural laboratory for exploring multi-sphere coupling mechanisms. Geological safeguard research for loss-reducing coal mining therefore necessitates a fundamental paradigm shift from traditional practices characterized by static assessments, segmented stages, experience-based judgments, single-sphere isolation, and production-oriented priorities to an integrated approach centered on process-based dynamics, quantitative geological characterization, multi-sphere coupling, and sustainability considerations. To support this transition, a comprehensive geological safeguard system is proposed, incorporating an integrated "space-air-ground" monitoring network, quantitative models describing cross-sphere interactions, and supply-side driving mechanisms. This system is intended to enable a full life-cycle framework for loss-reducing coal development, extending from precise early warning of mining-induced risks to diversified utilization of resources and products after mine closure. This research provides important theoretical support for achieving green mining of coal resources and holds significant practical value for the implementation of strategic national energy policies in the northwest region.