Potential resources from coal mining and combustion waste: Australian perspective

Philip Ofori (), Jane Hodgkinson, Manoj Khanal, Priyanthi Hapugoda and Junjun Yin
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Philip Ofori: CSIRO Sustainable Mining Technologies
Jane Hodgkinson: CSIRO Sustainable Mining Technologies
Manoj Khanal: CSIRO Sustainable Mining Technologies
Priyanthi Hapugoda: CSIRO Sustainable Mining Technologies
Junjun Yin: CSIRO Sustainable Mining Technologies

Environment, Development and Sustainability: A Multidisciplinary Approach to the Theory and Practice of Sustainable Development, 2023, vol. 25, issue 9, No 57, 10368 pages

Abstract: Abstract Coal production presents major sustainability challenges as it continually generates large amounts of waste, in addition to previously accumulated waste that have flow-on adverse effects on society and the environment. We have explored some of the opportunities for repurposing, reusing, reprocessing or recycling discards of the coal production value chain. We have developed coal mining waste processing and utilisation decision-making framework. We present a range of products that might use coal waste as a starting material to extract vital resources and generate value-added products. Australian coal mining companies recognise the need to manage their projects in an environmentally and socially responsible manner, which is now a research priority area for the industry. Some companies have developed some initiatives and protocols throughout the mining lifecycle to maximise resource efficiency, not just for the primary commodity but also for the waste/by-product. We have articulated a sustainability vision in which current coal production waste is regarded as a resource and managed as such to maximise and capture the intrinsic value of the whole resource, improving environmental, social and economic outcomes. The partnerships and collaboration between industry, federal and state governments, research and technology providers and community stakeholders that are required to transition to this new business model are emphasised.

Keywords: Coal; Waste utilisation; Critical metals; Value-added products; Geopolymer (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
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DOI: 10.1007/s10668-022-02492-3

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