Life cycle assessment of a passive remediation system for acid mine drainage: Towards more sustainable mining activity

摘要: Abstract Historical mining activity in the Iberian Pyrite Belt has left a huge number of abandoned sites; these cause severe water pollution by acid mine drainage, for which remediation seems to be unaffordable. Although choice systems is usually dictated technical and economic factors, sustainability such becoming increasingly important decision making, efforts promote greener measures are being made. Life cycle assessment proven methodology that can help selection best available technology reducing environmental burdens while ensuring efficiency treatment. The main goal this study perform first life dispersed alkaline substrate technology, effective metal-rich waters, order determine impacts generated throughout its entire factors controlling performance technology. We show although construction plant initially creates significant impacts, become negligible within few years (4.5 years). results also potential closely related upstream production chain materials employed Thus, replacement certain material sources circular usage would lead decrease impact values. wood chips forestry waste reduce emissions between 50% 100%. global warming was 1.86 kg CO2 eq/m3, limestone dissolution contributes 94% total value, hence non-carbonate significantly atmosphere. This finds evidence lower carbon footprint passive treatment comparison with other wastewater analyzed using analysis. work may contribute more environmentally friendly providing an insight into options drainage during operations post-closure phases.