Geomicrobiological Strategies in Rehabilitation of Coal Mine Dump Ecosystems
摘要
Mining, particularly coal and mineral exploration, serves not only as a cornerstone of global economic development but also brings significant environmental consequences, most notably the accumulation of mine wastes. Poor waste management practices lead to indiscriminate dumping of various mining residues, exacerbating environmental degradation. Key issues like soil contamination, water pollution, and air quality deterioration are common at mining sites worldwide, worsened by the conventional dumping of coal mining waste, including waste rock or overburden (OB) material, on valuable land. To address this urgent environmental challenge, the use of bioremediation and phytoremediation techniques offers promising solutions by leveraging the natural abilities of microorganisms, particularly geomicrobes. Geo microorganisms, which play a crucial role in Earth’s biogeochemical cycles, are significantly affected by coal mining activities, leading to altered soil physicochemical properties and changes in microbial community structures. However, despite the disruptions caused by mining, these microorganisms play an essential role in rehabilitating degraded land. They contribute to soil restoration by converting toxic contaminants into less harmful substances and supporting plant growth through metabolic regulation. This chapter explores the importance of studying geomicrobes and their pivotal role in restoring ecological balance in coal mine dumps, offering a pathway to more sustainable mining practices.