The waste resulting from coal mining activities, Sb-Au and W (N Portugal) deposited in heaps, represent a source of pollution in the surrounding soils and aquifers. Environmental pollution will be assessed to determine mitigation measures to restore the health of these resources. The sociological impact associated with the exploitation of geological resources and the perception of risks and dangers to the population will be addressed.

Within this framework, it is intended to carry out an integrated characterization of mining waste, soils, and waters affected by these mining structures, to identify the environmental impacts, and to contribute to their mitigation by assessing the health of soils and water. This integrated study, based on data from advanced methodologies and petrographic, geochemical, physical, geophysical, and environmental techniques allows the evaluation of the changes occurring in the waste materials and soils, providing insight into potential environmental impacts. On the other hand, leachates from these tailings reach the ecosystems promoting ecotoxicological effects on aquatic species and plants where bioavailable compounds represent significant stress to these species, as well as soil toxicity affecting plant growth, visible through their morphological parameters and pollen quality. The project includes only “RL1 – Soil health surrounding a former mining area: the case studies of coal, Sb-Au and W mines – A multidisciplinary approach to the effects of the mining activities on the health of the surrounding soils and waters”.

Project Link: https://www.fc.up.pt/shs/