The impact of EXtreme weather events on MINing operations

ended

Whilst extreme weather events that are consequence of climate change has been a well-researched subject for many years, it is only recently that the subject has appeared on the radar of the international mining industry. Some mines have already faced issues relating to increased severe weather events so this issue needs to be addressed. The scenarios of climate change indicate that this types of events will be more frequent and violent. TEXMIN project will identify and evaluate environmental impacts on operating, closed and abandoned mines caused by short term increases in extreme weather events and long-term climate change. Climate change scenarios will be calculated from regional climate models and climate baseline review. Impacts brought about by increases in precipitation, temperature and sudden changes in atmospheric pressure will be identified and evaluated with respect to mines across Europe. These will focus on issues such as minewater, gas emissions and structural stability. Risks will be assessed, adaptation & monitoring strategies and tool will be proposed and developed to mitigate current and future impacts. Some of the remedial actions proposed for shafts and spoil dumps will be applied and tested in pilot scale.