Spatial estimate of ecological and environmental damage in an underground coal mining area on the Loess Plateau: Implications for planning restoration interventions. (10th March 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Hou, Huping; Ding, Zhongyi; Zhang, Shaoliang; Guo, Shanchuan; Yang, Yongjun; Chen, Zanxu; Mi, Jiaxin; Wang, Xi
• Is Part Of: Journal of cleaner production. Volume 287(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-03-10
• Subjects: Ecological environmental damage -- Integrated assessment -- Ecological restoration planning -- Mining area -- Loess Plateau; Factory and trade waste -- Management -- Periodicals; Manufactures -- Environmental aspects -- Periodicals; Déchets industriels -- Gestion -- Périodiques; Usines -- Aspect de l'environnement -- Périodiques; 628.5
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jclepro.2020.125061
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0959-6526

Abstract

Abstract: Estimation of the ecological and environmental damage is viewed as an essential tool for effective decision-making in ecological restoration, especially involving high-intensity coal mining and high ecological vulnerability on the Loess Plateau, China. Using the Datong mining area on the Loess Plateau as a case study, we propose an integrated spatial estimation based on surface subsidence prediction, geographic information system, and field survey. The implications for regional ecological restoration are analyzed. Based on this inspection, the magnitude of ecological and environmental damage depended on a combination of risk factors, other than a single factor or evaluation target. Still, the geological hazard was the primary impact factor, especially surface subsidence as a result of underground mining. The results suggest that areas of severe, moderate, and slight damage accounted for 9.87%, 80.09%, and 10.04%, respectively. The methodology used was effective in determining the ecological and environmental damage that is consistent with the spatial distribution of subsidence. The proposed integrated estimation provides targeted measures for active, progressive, and passive interventions to improve and renovate the post-reclamation mining ecosystem and ensure sustainable planning in underground mining areas. Highlights: Introducing a hierarchical structure of ecological and environmental damage assessment in a mining area. Summarizing the ecological and environmental characteristics triggered by underground mining activities. Estimating ecological and environmental damages via subsidence prediction, geographic information system, and field survey. Providing targeted measures for active, progressive, and passive interventions to improve and renovate the mining ecosystem.