The term “mine waste” describes the undesirable solid, liquid, and gaseous materials, such as overburden, waste rock, tailings, and slag, that are produced during the extraction and processing of minerals and other geological resources.
Possible utilizations of mine waste include several environmentally beneficial and economically valuable applications. Mine waste can be transformed from an environmental liability into a resource by repurposing it for use in industries such as construction, soil rehabilitation, agriculture, and raw material supply for industrial processes.
Key utilization areas
Construction material: mine waste, such as waste rock and tailings, can be processed into aggregates for use in concrete, bricks, tiles, precast elements, and road construction. This helps meet the global demand for raw materials while reducing the need for natural quarrying.
Soil rehabilitation and agriculture: silicate-rich mine waste can enhance soil structure and fertility. When combined with carbon and nitrogen, it can promote plant growth and assist in carbon sequestration, supporting environmental restoration and combating climate change.
Raw material recovery and industrial use: some mine wastes still contain valuable metals and minerals that can be recovered and reused, reducing the need for fresh mining. Waste material can also serve as feedstock in cement production and other industrial processes.
Environmental and economic benefits: repurposing mine waste reduces storage costs and environmental risks associated with tailings dams, decreases natural resource depletion, and supports circular economy principles. It can create new economic opportunities and jobs in mining regions by fostering secondary industries.
Thus, mine waste utilization lies at the intersection of sustainability, economic gain, and environmental protection by turning waste into valuable products and reducing mining impacts overall.
