Sustainable resolutions for environmental threat of the acid mine drainage

Abstract

Acid Mine Drainage (AMD) caused by abandoned mines is an enormous source of negative impact on the environment and the species that inhabit it. The low levels of pH and high concentration of metals and metalloids (copper, gadolinium, lithium, etc.) in mining pits with standing water lead to changing the balance of surrounding organisms and ecosystems. The scale of the issue and the quantity of AMD sites throughout the globe are factors that make AMD a critical environmental threat. Many AMD treatments have been implemented to reduce the negative impact of AMD, with many solutions being very costly and only suited for particular project situations. Policymakers have strong leverage in correcting AMD problems by developing regulations and laws. This study proposes three more sustainable solutions for reducing and eventually eliminating the impact of AMD with less capital investment while also resolving the landfill problem as well. Also, some governmental strategies are suggested for forming collaborative relationships between industry professionals from different perspectives with the goal to resolve the AMD issue through innovative ideas. Implementation of previous strategies and suggested ones, as well as the further involvement of more communities, can enhance the sustainability of life exposed to AMD.

Keywords: ACSMP; AMD treatment; Acid lakes; Acid mine drainage; Canadian geese death; Clean Water Act; Flooded mines; PADRE.