Figure 7.12 Steps required for manufacturing products and their
environmental consequences- RECLAMATION—OVERBURDEN REMEDIATION
The Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 is the primary federal
law that regulates the environmental effects of surface mining in the United
States. It ensures that mining operations are conducted in an environmentally
responsible manner and that the land is adequately reclaimed during and
following the mining process. Various steps can be used after surface mining has
taken place in an attempt to return the land to its former condition. These steps
include:
■ Recontouring the land to its former condition
■ If required, adding new topsoil and/or soil nutrients to both improve soil
fertility and soil structure
■ Replanting the area with fast-growing native vegetationWhen the mine spoil (spoil bank), tailings, and/or overburden contains
cyanide from gold mining or sulfur from coal, copper, iron, nickel, or zinc
mining, remediation of the soil and groundwater can be accomplished by: