In-Pit Disposal of Mine Tailings for a Sustainable Mine Closure: A Responsible Alternative to Develop Long-Term Green Mining Solutions

Abstract

In the next decades many of the old tailings storage facilities (TSFs) could be re-processed if one considers the prices of metals, new uses of metals which today are not valuable, and the application of new, more efficient metallurgical technologies. In this context, in-pit disposal of mine tailings (IPDMT) is an attractive alternative to be used as part of responsible mine closure: mines could reprocess the mine tailings and place them in an open pit as part of sustainable mine closure. This article explores a little-explored tailings disposal technique that has the potential to be considered as an environmentally friendly solution, returning mine tailings to their place of origin and providing long-term stability under a climate change scenario. This article presents the main features, benefits, and potential drawbacks of IPDMT, with an emphasis on: (i) a description of the main advantages and disadvantages of application; and design issues related to (ii) IPDMT physical stability (pit slope stability, tailings transport, placement systems); (iii) IPDMT hydrological stability (water management, seepage control, hydrogeological monitoring,); and (iv) IPDMT geochemical stability (geochemical characterization, acid rock drainage control, covers). The novelty of this article is the proposal to change the status quo of traditional management of mine tailings to a new paradigm where the technique of in-pit disposal of mine tailings can be considered a green mining solution for mine closure. Finally, some successful cases around the world that involved the implementation of this technique are presented.