Increased opposition from environmental groups is severely restricting the operation and planning of large-scale surface mines in the world. Some projects of surface mining will have to be cancelled and downsized due to environmental issues. Under this social situation, the mining industry has started the campaign and the public relations for the importance of extracting and using coal resources in order to mitigate the protection. It has been recognized throughout the industry that planning is essential to minimize the effects of mining on the environment. Environmental management and rehabilitation are now integral parts of planning for mining.
Mines have a finite life that ceases when the mineral has been fully extracted. During the life of mine, mining, especially surface mining, has the potential to have environmental effects that extend beyond the confines of the mine boundary. These include erosion with increases in sedimentation and turbidity in surrounding water courses and leaching of salts that also result in the reduction of water quality. These effects may range from minimal to quite severe and widespread, depending upon the physical and chemical properties of the overburden and reject materials, the climate and location of the mine, and its relationships with surrounding land uses. Rehabilitation of mines is aimed towards the projected future land-use of the area.
This paper describes surface mining systems in Australia and then discusses the factors that should be considered in order to avoid potential environmental issues resulting from surface mining when developing a new surface mine.
