Mining water use refers to the spectrum of water withdrawals, consumption, and discharge associated with mineral extraction and processing operations, including open-pit, underground, and placer mining, as well as mineral beneficiation and tailings management. Scientifically, it encompasses process water for ore crushing, grinding, flotation, leaching, dust suppression, and slurry transport, plus groundwater dewatering and cooling needs. Quantification focuses on water balances, specific water-use intensities (e.g., m³ per tonne of ore or product), and water quality changes such as increased salinity, metal loads, and acidity. Research addresses efficiency improvements, closed-loop recycling, alternative water sources, and impacts on hydrological regimes and aquatic ecosystems.
After more than a decade of negotiations, a new round of talks to finalize a code to regulate deep-sea mining in international waters begins Monday in Jamaica, with hopes high for adoption this year.
Environment
Mar 17, 2025
0
41
A low-value byproduct of the coal mining process is proving highly effective at helping reclaim the land and water used in mining, University of Alberta research shows.
Nanomaterials
Jul 22, 2021
1
161
