Tropical surface gold mining: A review of ecological impacts and restoration strategies. (27th August 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Timsina, Shrabya; Hardy, Nora G.; Woodbury, David J.; Ashton, Mark S.; Cook‐Patton, Susan C.; Pasternack, Rachel; Martin, Meredith P.
• Is Part Of: Land degradation & development. Volume 33:Number 18(2022)
• Page Start: 3661
• Page End: 3674
• Publication Date: 2022-08-27
• Subjects: ASGM -- gold -- mine reclamation -- reforestation -- surface mining -- tropical restoration; Land degradation -- Periodicals; Soil conservation -- Periodicals; Reclamation of land -- Periodicals; Land use -- Periodicals; Economic development -- Environmental aspects -- Periodicals; 333.7315
• DOI: 10.1002/ldr.4430
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1085-3278

Abstract

Abstract: Surface gold mining severely degrades landscapes, causing deforestation, soil erosion and displacement, and toxic contamination. The prevalence of both large‐scale and artisanal, small‐scale surface gold mining in the tropics has risen over recent decades. Restoration strategies developed for less‐severe forms of degradation may not sufficiently address the unique ecological conditions of former gold mines. In this review, we summarize biophysical challenges to the restoration and reforestation of large‐ and small‐scale gold mines in the tropics and synthesize the findings of studies that test restoration strategies at these sites. Certain practices, such as the backfilling of mined pits, topsoil conservation, and the preservation of local seed sources, emerge from the literature as crucial for the timely and effective restoration of gold mines. However, because the severity of ecological degradation varies greatly within and between individual mines, and given the relatively small number ( n = 42) of published tropical field studies found in our literature review, we highlight a clear need for continued research and development of restoration strategies specific to ecological conditions of former gold mines in the tropics.