An Approach to Thresholds for Evaluating Post-Mining Site Reclamation

Here, a time-scale conceptual threshold model for assessing, evaluating, documenting, and monitoring post-mining sites reclamation progress was developed. It begins from initial state I-0 down to degraded state D-0 (which depends on the mining). Reclamation starts with soil reconstruction R-2 up to revegetation R-1 (red zones) to reach minimum threshold R-0 (amber zone). Beyond R-0 are green zones R-1, R-2, and R-3 representing soil/abiotic conditions, biological, and improved threshold, respectively. The model also identifies potential drivers, land-use options, targets, and endpoints along the threshold reclamation ladder. It is applicable to all degraded ecosystems and adoptable in national and international laws. In this approach study, we identified threshold biotic/abiotic indicators for ascertaining success from R-0, future work focuses on measurement and ascribing of threshold values to each of the threshold stage.

Automated summary

The developed time-scale conceptual threshold model provides a comprehensive framework for assessing, evaluating, documenting, and monitoring post-mining site reclamation progress. It covers the entire reclamation process from initial state to ultimate state, including soil reconstruction, revegetation, reaching minimum threshold, and higher threshold levels. The model is applicable to various degraded ecosystems and can be adopted in national and international laws.