Evaluating Surface Stability for Sustainable Development Following Cessation of Mining Exploitation

Rafał Misa (), Anton Sroka and Dawid Mrocheń
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Rafał Misa: Strata Mechanics Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, 30-059 Krakow, Poland
Anton Sroka: Strata Mechanics Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, 30-059 Krakow, Poland
Dawid Mrocheń: Strata Mechanics Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, 30-059 Krakow, Poland

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 3, 1-20

Abstract: While the cessation of underground mining operations reduces immediate risks to surface structures, it does not fully eliminate long-term surface hazards, which can hinder the sustainable development of post-mining communities. This study presents a combination of analytical and practical methods to quantitatively assess these persistent hazards, focusing on three critical areas: the risk of surface instability from discontinuous phenomena at shallow road headings, the progression of subsidence after mining has ceased, and surface uplift due to rising mine water levels. By providing practical examples, this research highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring and hazard assessment to support sustainable land use in former mining regions. These findings contribute to a broader understanding of post-mining environmental impacts, offering valuable insights into mitigating surface risks that can influence local sustainability efforts. This study supports the global drive toward sustainable development by addressing the long-term effects of resource extraction on land stability and community resilience.

Keywords: sustainable post-mining; surface deformations; uplift; residual subsidence; environmental sustainability; discontinuous deformations; mine flooding; mine closure (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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