Abstract
Mining operations, despite their significant contribution to the Indonesian national income, have been criticized for causing environmental degradation and biodiversity loss. The removal of vegetation, soil, and overburden (i.e., rock covering coal or ores) before excavating coal and mineral ores destroys ecosystems and degrades soil quality. After a mining operation is completed, an extensive open area with one or several ponds needs to be restored. In the last decade there has been significant progress in the management of former mine sites in Indonesia. New policies based on tougher regulations and supervision, the education of mining staff, and awards for environmentally sound practices have stimulated mining companies to integrate biodiversity conservation and agricultural production into their mine reclamation programs to ensure sustainable development of the local area as well as nationally. In their mine reclamation programs, several companies have replaced monocultures of exotic tree species, especially Acacia mangium and Falcataria moluccana, with diverse local tree species, such as ebony (Diospyros celebica), ironwood (Eusideroxylon zwageri), and many dipterocarp species, merbau (Intsia spp.). Model systems for the integration of agricultural production on former mine sites have also been demonstrated, such as growing cover crops to reduce surface erosion and as fodder for cattle farming as well as growing food crops (upland rice and sorghum), estate crops (oil palm, rubber, and cacao), and biofuel crops (Jatropha, Calophyllum). Vast ponds have been converted into productive fish or shrimp farms or are being used as water reservoirs to supply high-quality fresh water for the companies as well as nearby towns. However, studies are still needed to investigate the productivity and safety of products from former mine sites. Education and capacity-building programs to prepare competent mining staff to manage and utilize former mine sites for biodiversity conservation and agricultural production are also needed.
