Introduction

This course will set down the current state of ideas, practice, and possibilities, so that you are empowered to move forward to success at the mine where you are part of a team charged with mine closure.

In theory, mine closure is simple; in practice, it is difficult. In this course, we will start with the simple and then proceed to the more difficult, which we will explain in terms that will enable you to deal with the many issues that arise as you plan and implement mine closure.

The simple part of mine closure may be set down as three objectives:

1. remove equipment and structures
2. stabilize waste piles
3. control spread of pollutants from the closed site

As we shall see as we progress through this course, these three simple objectives quickly give rise to many questions and knotty issues, including:

• Who pays?
• Who says enough is enough?
• And,What is to become of the site in the long term?

Many more related and difficult issues arise. Reading only this course will not enable you to solve all the problems. Each mine site is unique and demands a unique closure plan and approach. You will undoubtedly have to formulate the specifics of the closure plan for your mine by way of many studies, meetings, reports, and deep deliberations.

The principal topics covered by this course include:

• Introduction and Basic Concepts
• Laws, Regulations and Standards for Mine Closure
• Post-Closure Mine Use
• Mine Closure Phases, Planning and Implementation
• Financing Mine Closure
• The Engineering of Closure
• Social Issues of Mine Closure
• Common Mistakes of Mine Closure

Course Content

The course comprises 25 learning sessions, each of 30–60 minutes duration, supported by numerous figures, tables, case studies and appendices, plus eight interactive reviews that confirm the viewer's achievement of learning objectives. The total duration of the course is approximately fifteen hours. 

Learning Outcomes

1. Recognize and discuss the multi-disciplinary components of mine closure.
2. Formulate the specifics of a closure plan for a mine by way of studies, meetings, reports and deliberations.
3. Oversee the implementation of a mine closure plan.

Duration: 15 Hours

Category: Environment

Level: Intermediate