Tin mining process and its effects on soils in Bangka Belitung Islands Province, Indonesia

Abstract

Tin mining in the Bangka Belitung Islands Province is conducted with an open-pit mining system. This paper discusses the process of tin mining and its effects on soil properties in this region. Tin mining led to the formation of accumulations in the form of (1) mixed soils from horizons A, B, and C, (2) excavated materials from the deeper levels of the pit, (3) coarse-grained tailings with quartz as a primary element, (4) tailings mixed with excavated soils, and (5) voids filled with water. After tin mining ended, the area was left with waste excavated materials, stockpiles of excavated materials or tailings, and voids, spread over an area of 124,838 ha. Overall, mining has led to significant and alarming damages to the biophysical aspects of land resources and the environment. This damage includes the deterioration of soil structure, changes in soil texture, loss of soil organic matter, and loss of soil fertility. The mining activities also caused the loss of a number of types of biota that are important to provide environmental services such as the provision of forest products, soil stability, maintaining the hydrological cycle, and carbon sequestration.