A perfect introduction to sustainable mining for those new to the subject or those who require some revision, this book provides a basic overview of international sustainable mining practices since 1992, with particular emphasis upon practices in the Americas, Asia and Europe. The text begins by addressing issues such as the volume of waste generated by mining, mine closure planning and the environmental impacts, and then goes into specific detail in the following areas: cleaner production practices in Australia; blasting impacts and their control in the US; minimizing surface water impacts; minimizing groundwater impacts; use of environmental indicators in mining; and emerging mining technologies that minimize environmental impacts. The text contains relevant examples and case histories for ease of revision, and also includes a chapter on Best Mining Practices for Sustainable Mining and sub-chapters on small-scale mining, tailings pond management and hazardous waste management.
Incorporating case studies for easy revision, this text is the ideal source for those wishing to acquire specialized information on sustainable mining and international mining practices, with specific reference to America, Asia and Europe.
"?an invaluable reference for the mining profession. It takes the concept of sustainable mining and applies it to real-world environmental problems at mines located throughout the world through case studies, supported through sound engineering practices and with an eye toward long-term impacts. This volume has long been missing in the profession and should be on the desk of every practitioner whose job is to minimize environmental impacts on mine workers and surrounding communities. Much criticism of the mining industry would be muted if these concepts and recommendations are implemented worldwide. We can only hope that this volume will provide new impetus for such sustainable mining."-Jack Fritz, National Academy of Engineering, Washington, D.C., USA
