Use of Abandoned Mines

The course addresses mine closure and decommissioning and the potential subsequent use of mine workings, mining sites, and other elements of post-mining landscapes. It covers environmental, socio-economic, legislative, geomechanical, and safety aspects of mine closure, as well as the potential use of mine workings for energy generation and storage, water collection, laboratory and cultural purposes, or the storage of raw materials and waste. Attention is also given to the reuse of surface infrastructure and brownfields, waste rock dumps and tailings facilities, and to the remediation and reclamation of areas affected by mining activities. The course includes examples of good practice and case studies of the reuse of post-mining sites.

Knowledge:
Upon completion of the course, the student characterises the basic procedures for mine closure and decommissioning, explains the potential uses of mine workings, mining sites, and other elements of post-mining landscapes, and describes the related technical, environmental, safety, and legislative requirements. The student distinguishes between different reuse options with regard to site-specific conditions.

Skills:
The student analyses the potential reuse of mine workings and post-mining sites, identifies and evaluates the associated risks, and proposes an appropriate reuse option. The student applies the acquired knowledge when solving specific design and project-related tasks.

General Competences:
The student independently assesses alternative uses of mine workings and post-mining sites, selects an appropriate approach, and provides a professional justification for the proposed solution. In decision-making, the student takes into account technical, environmental, and safety conditions, associated risks, and relevant legislative requirements.