Abstract <p>Mining tailings are residues from the extractive industry and are considered hazardous wastes because they may contain leachable heavy metals. Tailings are disposed in land or dams and contribute significantly to air, soil, and water pollution. The utilization of tailings in the construction industry is an effective way to minimize tailings accumulation and to reduce the consumption of raw materials for cement production. In this study, mechanical-activated tailings (MA-MT) and thermal-activated tailings (TA-MT) by 15% are proposed to substitute ordinary Portland cement (OPC) in the preparation of blended cements. Mechanical compressive strength tests demonstrate that blended cement with 15% of substitution increases compressive strength by 3&#xa0;MPa in comparison to OPC mortar at 90 curing days. Besides, leaching test shows As and Cd are effectively immobilized in cement matrix at 3 and 28 curing days, therefore acquiring safety of utilization of tailing in construction materials.</p> Graphical abstract <p></p>