Geoecological situation in the region of the Erdenet mining and processing facility (Mongolia)

Abstract

The Erdenet mining and processing facility (Mongolia) develops a large copper-molybdenum deposit. The volume of waste in the tailings dump of the enterprise reaches 600 m. m³ and its area is more than 1300 hectares. Quarries and tailings pits release significant amounts of persistent pollutants into the environment. They penetrate groundwater and surface water and also spread as dust. The results of comprehensive geochemical and geoecological studies indicate the irreversible anthropogenic transformation of the area. In 25 years, the operation of the Erdenet deposit will be terminated. Mongolian government decided to develop a “Concept of the program for closure of the enterprise, and further development of the area”. Based on the results of this research, it is proposed to identify several areas and develop special renovation projects for each of them. An enterprise for the production of construction materials can be created on the tailing’s dumpsite. Companies extracting residual amounts of valuable elements from waste can be profitable. The network of transport communications of the deposit can ensure the operation of facilities in areas of mining landscapes and technogenic geochemical anomalies. After planning the terrain and covering the surface with insulating materials on these sites, a technology park can be organized. Implementing these projects as part of a single program will provide jobs for the Erdenet residents, and the budget revenues generated by their operation will allow for the renovation of the urban area.