Acid Mine Drainage from Gold Mining in South Africa: Remediation, Reuse, and Resource Recovery

BACKGROUND:

Acid Mine Drainage (AMD) is a persistent issue in South Africa, stemming from both active and defunct mines. It generates from waste materials, leading to severe environmental consequences such as water pollution and ecosystem disruption. The acidic and metal-rich nature of AMD poses significant environmental hazards if not properly managed.

GOALS AND METHODS:

The paper aims to critically examine the effects of Acid Mine Drainage from South African gold mines, explore remediation options, and evaluate the potential for resource recovery. The authors review case studies and assess current technologies for AMD treatment, comparing traditional methods with innovative approaches that include the recovery of valuable by-products.

CONCLUSION AND TAKEAWAYS:

The paper concludes that AMD poses a significant environmental and social challenge, with current treatment methods being costly and generating substantial waste. The study highlights the potential of new technologies to treat AMD more effectively, reduce costs, and recover valuable by-products such as rare earth elements and sulfuric acid. The authors advocate for further research and the full-scale implementation of these innovative treatment solutions to promote a more sustainable and economically viable approach to managing AMD in South Africa and globally.