COMMITTEE ON EPA 542-R-04-003
THE CHALLENGES OF January 2004
MODERN SOCIETY www.epa.gov/tio
www.clu-in.org
www. nato. int/ccms
NATO/CCMS Pilot Study
Prevention and Remediation
Issues in Selected Industrial Sectors:
Non-Ferrous Mining
2003
ANNUAL REPORT
Number 265
NORTH ATLANTIC TREATY ORGANIZATION
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2003
Annual Report
NATO/CCMS Pilot Study
Prevention and Remediation Issues
in Selected Industrial Sectors:
Non-Ferrous Mining
Baia Mare, Romania
September 7-11, 2003
January 2004
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NOTICE
This Annual Report was prepared under the auspices of the North Atlantic Treaty
Organization's Committee on the Challenges of Modern Society (NATO/CCMS) as a service
to the technical community by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (U.S.
EPA). The report was funded by U.S. EPA's Office of Superfund Remediation and
Technology Innovation. The report was produced by Environmental Management Support,
Inc., of Silver Spring, Maryland, under U.S. EPA contract 68-W-03-038. Mention of trade
names or specific applications does not imply endorsement or acceptance by U.S. EPA.
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CONTENTS
Introduction 1
Abstracts Included in the NATO/CCMS Pilot Study 3
1. Use of Alkaline Additives and a Soil Cover for Prevention of Acid Mine Drainage from
Sulphidic Tailings in Lavrion—Anthimos Xenidis, Greece 4
2. Remediation Strategies Overview: Remediation of Metal Contaminated Sites—Ludo Diels,
Belgium 5
3. Remediation Schemes to Mitigate the Impact of Abandoned Mines—Brian D. Bone, United
Kingdom 6
4. Toxic Mining Waste in the Pre-Accession Countries: The Pecomines Project—Marco
D'Alessandro, Italy 7
5. Remediation Case Study: The Deloro Mine Remediation Project—
Konstantin Volchek, Canada 9
6. Almaden: Remediation techniques in the largest Mercury Mining District of the World—
Pablo L. Higueras, Spain 10
7. Selection of Remediation Measures for Contaminated Mine Sites—Michael Nahir, Canada 11
8. Safety and Risk Assessment for Aurul Tailings Pond—Dan Stematiu, Romania 12
9. Issues in United States Mining—George R. Bockosh, United States 13
10. The District of Goslar: One the World's Most Important Mining Areas in Former Times
and a Severe Ecological Burden Today; How Can the Competent Authority Cope with
Such a Heritage?—Juergen Bauer, Germany 14
11. Risk Reduction of Mining Accidents in the Tisa Basin—Adriana Eftimie, Romania 15
12. Mining Remediation Technology Developments and Information Resources—
Walt Kovalick, United States 16
13. The Rosia Montana Project: How a Gold Mining Investment Gives Hope to the Environment—
John Aston, Romania 17
14. Observations on Mine Life Cycle Issues and Acid Drainage—Dirk Van Zyl, United States 18
15. Romanian Mining Industry and Environment Protection: Non-Ferrous Mining Industry—
Cornel Florea Gabrian, Romania 19
16. NATO/CCMS Overview—Oliver Landour, Belgium 21
17. Non-ferrous mining in Canada—Lisa Keller, Canada 23
Country Representatives 277
Attendees List 29
Pilot Study Mission 35
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NATO/CCMS Pilot Project on Non-Ferrous Mining January 2004
INTRODUCTION
The Council of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) established the Committee on the
Challenges of Modern Society (CCMS) in 1969. CCMS was charged with developing meaningful
programs to share information among countries on environmental and societal issues that complement
other international endeavors and to provide leadership in solving specific problems of the human
environment. A fundamental precept of CCMS involves the transfer of technological and scientific
solutions among nations with similar environmental challenges.
This document reports on the first meeting of the Pilot Study on Prevention and Remediation Issues in
Selected Industrial Sectors. The purpose of the pilot study is to define and explore best practices for
reducing the health and environmental impact on soil and groundwater from industrial sectors of interest
(e.g., metals mining, organic chemical production, gasworks, and fertilizer manufacturing) as well as
other unique site "types" (e.g., old landfills, privatization sites [i.e., facilities transitioning from former
state ownership in certain categories], mega sites [i.e., large scale former industrial and mining facilities],
and shoreline sediment sites). The pilot study will explore the techniques and technologies for preventing
and avoiding discharge to soil and groundwater as well as measurement and remediation for that industry
sector or site type. It seeks to engage industry and other private sector organizations at the transnational
level in sharing and evaluating technical information. In reviewing case studies as well as experience
from the previous CCMS pilot study on contaminated land and other sources, the proposed pilot study
may be able to assess or benchmark "what is easy to clean," "what is difficult to clean," and "what is
impossible, at reasonable cost, to clean." The unique contribution of the pilot study would be measured by
its ability to synthesize information regarding best practices, successes and failures, and uncertainties for
the sectors of interest
The first meeting of the study was held Baia Mare, Romania on Sept. 7 - 10, 2003. The United States is
the lead country for the Pilot Study, and nine other countries participated in the meeting along with
representatives of the World Bank and Joint Research Center of the EU. This report is a set of abstracts
(annotated with significant web sites) of the presentations at the meeting along. In addition, a CD is
available with copies of all the detailed presentations.
This report is available online at http://www.nato.int/ccms/ and http://www.clu-in.org/intup.htm. CD
ordering information can be found at the latter web site. General information on the NATO/CCMS Pilot
Study may be obtained from the country representatives listed at the end of the report. Further
information on the presentations in this document should be obtained from the identified presenters.
Stephen C. James
Walter W. Kovalick, Jr., Ph.D.
Co-Directors
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NATO/CCMS Pilot Project on Non-Ferrous Mining January 2004
ABSTRACTS INCLUDED IN NATO/CCMS PILOT STUDY
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NATO/CCMS Pilot Project on Non-Ferrous Mining January 2004
USE OF ALKALINE ADDITIVES AND A SOIL COVER FOR PREVENTION OF
ACID MINE DRAINAGE FROM SULPHIDIC TAILINGS IN LAVRION
Anthimos Xenidis
Greece
1. ABSTRACT
The methodology for the design and application at full scale of a simple, innovative and cost-effective
rehabilitation scheme on the Tailings Dam in Lavrion, Greece, using alkaline additives and a soil cover
for Acid Mine Drainage prevention is presented. This spoil contains sulphidic flotation tailings and was
characterized as hazardous since it exhibited high acid generation potential, poor pore water quality, high
EPA TCLP toxicity and high bioavailable and phytoavailable fractions of heavy metals. Experiments at
both laboratory and field scale proved that it is possible to inhibit acid generation by thorough mixing of
ground limestone with pyritic tailings and by carefully controlling the conditions in such a way that the
oxidation products precipitate around the pyrite grains, hindering further oxidation of the pyrite; this
localized dissolution - precipitation action will ultimately result in cementing the particles and forming a
low-permeability layer (hard pan) acting as a barrier to oxygen and water infiltration. The entire
rehabilitation scheme applied to the Lavrion Tailings Dam involves mixing of the top 0.80 m of the
tailings with limestone and application of a dry cover consisting of sand-gravel, protective and vegetation
soil layers. The principal functions of this scheme are: to reduce water and oxygen infiltration within the
tailings; to avoid transportation of the fine toxic particles by the wind; to avoid contact of humans,
animals and plants with the tailings; to encourage the development of a plant community and produce an
aesthetically pleasing vegetated surface and finally to serve as a long-lived and maintenance-free cover
system. In order to monitor the overall performance of the scheme, drillholes were placed on and around
the rehabilitated area and piezometers were installed for regular monitoring of the pore water level and
quality. It has been proven that 8 years after the construction, pore water quality was substantially
improved and it still remains neutral.
2. CONTACT
Dr. Anthimos Xenidis
Laboratory of Metallurgy
National Technical University of Athens
GR-157 80 Zografos, Greece
axen@central .ntua
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NATO/CCMS Pilot Project on Non-Ferrous Mining January 2004
REMEDIATION STRATEGIES OVERVIEW:
REMEDIATION OF METAL CONTAMINATED SITES
Ludo Diels
Belgium
1. ABSTRACT
Former mining activities, non-ferrous metals processing, surface treatment and electronic industries lead
to the contamination of soils and groundwater with heavy metals. In function of the industrial activities
these metals are sometimes accompanied by organics like BTEX or chloro-aliphatics (VOCLs). Also the
presence of natural iron (or even arsenic) can play a role in this contamination. After long periods of
exposure the heavy metal plumes became very large and are threatening groundwater reserves. This paper
will deal with the use of immobilisation techniques for the reduction of risks related to the presence of
heavy metals.
The addition of soil additives (as silicates, phosphates, carbonates, iron oxides, etc) can reduce the
bioavailability of metals in the soil and allow normal plant growth. Such an immobilisation process will
reduce the spreading of metals to the groundwater and to the air. Examples will be presented.
In case of groundwater pollution, the metals can be treated in situ in the aquifer in a way that they become
immobilised. This immobilisation can be done by inducing Sulphate Reducing Bacteria (SRBs) to reduce
sulphates into sulphides which will precipitate the heavy metals as metal sulphides. In order to induce the
bacteria a carbon source (electron donor) must be provided to grow these bacteria and to remove the
oxygen. It is important to make good evaluations about the feasibility of this technology as a quite low
ORP is necessary and methanogenic activity must be avoided. Good chemical analysis of the inorganic
and organic content are necessary (evaluations will be presented).
Batch test systems and column test systems will be presented. Evaluations of the in situ precipitates will
be discussed. Special attention will be paid to the addition of ORP reducing compounds.
The upscaling of the process towards injection and diffusion of carbon sources will be discussed in detail.
The influence of the carbon source and concentration on the microbial ecology of sulphate reducing
bacteria versus methanogenic bacteria will be presented. Also the treatment design will probably consist
of some kind of virtual barrier or treatment curtain at the border of the industrial site to avoid the high
costs for complete remediation of the whole site. Feasibility tests and the results of a pilot study work for
in situ bioprecipitation and sorption will be presented and compared. All the results will be accompanied
by molecular biological results concerning the identification of specific groups of Sulphate Reducing
Bacteria in the process.
The results will be compared with another in situ technology being immobilisation by sorption to zeolites,
silicates, compost and other materials in Permeable Reactive Barriers. Also results will be presented on an
alkalinity producing barrier system.
The results will also be compared with pump and treat technology and a general approach for mining
sites, non-ferrous sites or surface treatment sites will be presented. Special attention will be paid to
prevent possible disasters and to remediate large areas of contaminated groundwater and even surface
water. The approach will be presented by applying an Integrated Management System, under
development for megasites or risk-management zones in Europe.
2. CONTACT
Ludo Diels, J. Geets, J. Vos, K. Van Broekhoven, L. Bastiaens
Flemish institute for technological research, Vito
Boeretang 200, B - 2400 Mol, Belgium
Ludo.diels@vito.be
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NATO/CCMS Pilot Project on Non-Ferrous Mining January 2004
REMEDIATION SCHEMES TO MITIGATE THE IMPACT OF ABANDONED MINES
Brian D. Bone
United Kingdom
1. ABSTRACT
Mining in Britain has a long history, dating back to the Bronze Age and with widespread production from
Roman times through to a general decline following its peak in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The
exploitation of our mineral resource, however, has not been without cost, and an environmental legacy
has arisen from mine abandonment.
The main problems arising from abandoned mines in England and Wales relate to historical pollution of
surface waters, recent abandonment and groundwater rebound, and the impact of mining wastes, both as
diffuse sources of pollution and potential harm to health. Legislative changes in the UK and Europe in the
last decade have provided significant drivers for the remediation of abandoned mines and are likely to
increase the need for remediation when the EC Water Framework Directive is fully implemented.
It is important that remedial strategies to deal with pollution from abandoned mines are based on sound
science having regard to site conditions and remedial options. A strategy may involve one or a
combination of active treatment, passive treatment or preventative measures and can require a multi-
disciplinary approach utilising engineering, chemical, geological and biological expertise.
Case studies are presented to reflect the range of technologies that have been piloted and used in England
and Wales to deal with minewater and mine waste impacts and three remediation schemes carried out at
two former non-ferrous metal mine sites in England are discussed in this paper:
• an active oxidation and neutralisation treatment system to deal with the discharge from a tin mine
following abandonment and groundwater rebound;
• a pilot passive system to assess the feasibility of such technologies to offer a long-term solution to
metal mine discharges; and
• civil engineering methods to prevent collapse of a tailings dam at an abandoned lead mine.
2. CONTACT
Brian D. Bone
Environment Agency for England and Wales
Solihull, England
brian .bone@environment-agency .gov.uk
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NATO/CCMS Pilot Project on Non-Ferrous Mining January 2004
TOXIC MINING WASTE IN THE PRE-ACCESSION COUNTRIES:
THE PECOMINES PROJECT
Marco D'Alessandro
Italy
1. ABSTRACT
Mining waste is known to be amongst the largest waste streams in the EU and it is ranked first in the
relative contribution of wastes in many Central and Eastern European Countries.. There is a substantial
gap in consistent information on European level, how mining wastes in EU Member States and Candidate
Countries are managed, of which nature their major hazard are and where the sites generating largest
hazards are precisely located, including those that have been abandoned. In order to fill effectively such a
gap, three components are crucial: A) Inventory; B) Impact assessment and C) Regulations.
Tackling the problem associated to mining waste from this perspective facilitates the outline of tight
interactions among legal, technical, and scientific aspects of the problem, helping the scientific
community and policy makers to face the problem in a rational manner.
On this background the Pecomines Project aimed to conceptualize and demonstrate a standard regional
inventory of waste sites from mineral mining in Pre-accession Countries in relation to catchment areas.
Thus it becomes possible to develop a concept of regional impact assessment allowing to link the
site/source related indicators with spatial information at catchment scale. The Pecomines inventory
combines site specific information coming from existing data bases in the Candidates Countries, which is
harmonized through the Pecomines questionnaire, and put into a relational data base.
The environmental impact assessment work package develops the links between pressure identified by the
inventory, and possible actions to reduce impacts and risks to acceptable level. Although different
negative environmental impacts are known, (dust and gas emission, subsidence,., etc) the primary
concerns are still related to emissions from the sites, contaminated water and land, and the risk of
accidental release from tailings ponds.
The third component of Pecomines Project is the detailed review of regulations in force in Candidate
Countries. In fact the ecosystem protection from toxic mining waste management requires a
comprehensive legislation and technical standards, which take full account of the vulnerability of the
environment within the catchment area downstream of mining sites. As a matter of fact differences exist
between Pre-Accession Countries: this review makes easier the comparison of existing guidelines
exploiting the opportunities offered by relevant measures from Community environmental legislation.
This should contribute to the development of criteria for safe disposal of waste, and for remediation and
environmental rehabilitation measures at active or abandoned mines.
The described approach to collect standardized information on mining sites and related waste from
existing data base is also an important step to fulfill the needs for a consistent development of EU policies
related to waste management, protection of water and soils resources, and health.
2. CONTACT
Marco D'Alessandro
I.E.S.; Soil and Waste Unit
Bd. 46, TP 460
CEC; JRC-Ispra; Italy
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NATO/CCMS Pilot Project on Non-Ferrous Mining January 2004
3. FOR MORE INFORMATION
For more information, visit these links:
• www.eugris.info
• www.viso.ei.irc.it/pecomines ext/main.html
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NATO/CCMS Pilot Project on Non-Ferrous Mining January 2004
REMEDIATION CASE STUDY:
THE DELORO MINE REMEDIATION PROJECT
Konstantin Volchek
Canada
1. ABSTRACT
The Deloro Mine site is a 202 hectare parcel of property that was the site of mining, refining and
manufacturing activities for over 100 years.
This report describes results of a field demonstration of an innovative arsenic removal process that
incorporates coagulation and microfiltration. Given the increasing importance of the arsenic
contamination issue in drinking water, the Coagulation-Enhanced Microfiltration (CEMF) was studied
with respect to drinking water treatment.
CEMF includes the addition of some metal salts that hydrolyze once they contact with water in neutral or
basic conditions. Freshly formed metal hydroxides react with arsenic ions and produce insoluble colloidal
particles. The water is then filtered through a membrane that rejects arsenic-bearing particles.
SAIC Canada previously performed a preliminary experimental investigation of CEMF and found it
highly effective in removing arsenic from water. The focus of this study was to demonstrate CEMF on a
pilot scale using actual arsenic-contaminated water.
A series of in-house tests were carried out on the actual water samples prior to field demonstration. This
was done to assess process parameters, such as operating pressure, system throughput, and reagent
consumption.
The field demonstration took place at the Deloro Arsenic Treatment Plant operated by the Ontario Clean
Water Agency (OCWA) in Deloro, Ontario. The Plant uses the ferric precipitation process to reduce the
level of arsenic in the groundwater and enable its discharge into the environment. Treated effluent
generated in this process was used as feed water in CEMF tests. Results of the field tests confirmed the
effectiveness of CEMF. The process reduced the level of arsenic in the discharge effluent from an average
80 jUg/L to as low as 10 /ug/L. It was demonstrated that CEMF could be incorporated into the existing
water treatment schemes with only minor modifications to the existing process.
This report provides recommendations for further studies and the trial implementation of CEMF at
existing arsenic treatment plants.
2. CONTACT
Konstantin Volchek, Dario Velicogna, Bill Wong
SAIC Canada
335 River Road
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
konstantin.volchek@saic.com
Carl Brown
Environment Canada
335 River Road
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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NATO/CCMS Pilot Project on Non-Ferrous Mining January 2004
ALMADEN: REMEDIATION TECHNIQUES IN THE LARGEST
MERCURY MINING DISTRICT OF THE WORLD
Pablo L. Higueras
Spain
1. ABSTRACT
Almaden, located in south-central Spain, contains the largest mercury mines of the world, having
produced one third of total mercury used by mankind in more than 2,000 years of uninterrupted mining
activity. The area contains 5 mines that have produced each more than 100,000 flasks (5,263 tons) of
metallic mercury, and over 50 points in which cinnabar can be found, and have been object of mining
research to greater or lesser extend. All these sites distribute in an area some 100 km2 wide, and of
course, constitute the source of a general distribution of the element in the regional environment.
In this presentation we will know the main characteristics of the area, including a brief presentation about
the geology, mining and metallurgy of the mercury deposits, and the environmental questions arising
from the generalized presence of mercury in the area. After that, we will analyze the corresponding risks
and hazards for the inhabitants of the region in relation with this question, to end with the presentation of
the results of the remediation techniques applied in the area, and the work that it rests to do to minimize
the risks detected.
The remediation techniques applied up to date in the area are phytoextraction and the study of a
crandallitic compound that can be used as a mercury immobilizator, on fluids, and on natural sites. The
results coming from these studies show that phytoremediation using agricultural plants (wheat, barley and
lupine) does not offer good results, on the basis of the low capacity of these plants for mercury uptake. On
the other hand, the crandallitic immobilizator has proven to be cheap to synthesize, and with high capacity
of mercury sorption.
2. CONTACT
Pablo L. Higueras
University of Castilla-La Mancha
Almaden School of Mines
E-13400 Almaden (Ciudad Real), Spain
pablo.higueras@uclm.es
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NATO/CCMS Pilot Project on Non-Ferrous Mining January 2004
SELECTION OF REMEDIATION MEASURES FOR CONTAMINATED MINE SITES
Michael Nahir
Canada
1. ABSTRACT
The selection of remediation measures for contaminated mine sites requires a process that is very
different from the approaches used at contaminated sites from other industries. The huge volume of waste
materials produced by mining and ore processing, the delayed reactivity of some of those wastes, the
long-term contamination of mine water, and the presence of significant physical hazards are examples of
factors that argue for a different approach. This paper describes case histories from Northern Canada
where the authors have been involved in the selection and implementation of mine closure measures, and
presents a methodology that can be applied to efficiently select closure measures for other mine sites.
The first case history describes the assessments of several remote mining sites in the Yukon, and the
simple method used to prioritize remedial measures. The second case history describes the closure of an
abandoned tailings facility in the southern Yukon, and the method used to select the appropriate level of
closure measures. The third case history describes ongoing efforts to select remediation measures for the
270,000 tons of arsenic trioxide dust that was left underground when the Giant Mine, near Yellowknife
NWT, was closed. The fourth case history describes closure planning for the Colomac Mine, an
abandoned gold mine faced with long-term environmetal concerns as well as immediate concerns related
to cyanide-contaminmated water and tailings dam safety.
The four case histories differ significantly in the levels of complexity and cost. Nonetheless, the authors
found that a common approach was effective. The "top down" approach is described, and its
implementation through various decision analysis methods is demonstrated. The "top-down" approach is
contrasted with approaches commonly applied at non-mining contaminated sites.
2. CONTACT
M. Nahir
Public Works & Government Services Canada
Edmonton, AB
D.E. Hockley
SRK Consulting Inc.
Vancouver BC
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NATO/CCMS Pilot Project on Non-Ferrous Mining January 2004
SAFETY AND RISK ASSESSMENT FOR AURUL TAILINGS POND
Dan Stematiu
Romania
1. ABSTRACT
The case study dedicated to Aurul tailings pond illustrates the use of risk analysis for developing a proper
risk management program after a severe technical accident. In the presentation below, the characteristics
of the pond, the design elements and the operating conditions required by the project are presented,
followed then by the description of the technical accident from January 2000, its causes and the first
measures taken immediately afterwards. A preliminary risk evaluation based on numerical indices allows
for a rational rating of constructive measures required to restart the pond operation. A complete
quantitative risk assessment renders evident the efficiency and the benefits of the structural and non-
structural measures in terms of risk management. The process starts with the identification of potential
failure modes and effects. The probability of breaching is then quantified on the basis of event trees. The
consequences of a potential failure are evaluated with respect to environmental and socio-economic
factors on a gravity scale.
2. CONTACT
Dan Stematiu
Technical University of Civil Engineering
Bucharest, Romania
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NATO/CCMS Pilot Project on Non-Ferrous Mining January 2004
ISSUES IN UNITED STATES MINING
George R. Bockosh
United States
1. ABSTRACT
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is a part of the United States
Department of Health and Human Service's Centers for Disease control. NIOSH is the sole U. S. Agency
who's role is to improve occupational safety and health through research and education. Its Pittsburgh
Research Laboratory occupies over 100 acres and employees over 200 people. Beginning in 1910, It has a
long history of producing practical solution to some of the most vexing safety and health issues in mining.
It continues that proud history today with a world class staff representing a wide range of disciplines,
including engineering, epidemiology, industrial hygiene, chemistry, physics, geology, psychology and
sociology, and world class facilities that enable it to address complex safety and health problems. The
PRL executes a wide range of research topics including expertise in dust, and diesel particle monitoring
and control, explosives, fire and explosion prevention and response, ergonomics and machine safety,
electrical safety, ground control, mine ventilation and training. It also tracks injury and illness in mines
via a surveillance activity and actively addresses the issue of the possible positive or negative impact of
emerging technologies on occupational safety and health.
This presentation will provide brief overviews of PRL and the U.S. mining industry. It will then report in
some depth on a NIOSH/PRL - Department of Energy funded study of critical technologies in the mining
industry. The study, New Forces at Work in Mining - Industry views of Critical Technologies study "that
was completed by the RAND Corporation. Critical developments that are expected in the industry were
derived from the views of leading representatives of 58 mining firms, equipment manufacturers, research
organizations and other entities. These critical technologies will be discussed as four priority areas: 1)
Information and communications technologies for process optimization, 2) Remote control and
automation, 3) Operations and maintenance, and 4) Unit operations capabilities.
2. CONTACT
George R. Bockosh
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
626 Cochrans mill Rd.
Pittsburgh, PA 15236
DJ Peterson
Tom LaTourrette
The RAND Corporation
Santa Monica, CA 90407-2138
James T. Bartis
The RAND Corporation
1200 South Hayes St.
Arlington VA 22202-5050
3. FOR MORE INFORMATION
For more information, visit these links:
• www. Rand .org/publiations/MR/MRl 3 247
• www.cdc.gov/niosh/
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NATO/CCMS Pilot Project on Non-Ferrous Mining January 2004
THE DISTRICT OF GOSLAR:
ONE THE WORLD'S MOST IMPORTANT MINING AREAS IN FORMER TIMES AND A
SEVERE ECOLOGICAL BURDEN TODAY; HOW CAN THE COMPETENT AUTHORITY
COPE WITH SUCH A HERITAGE?
Juergen Bauer
Germany
1. ABSTRACT
The district of Goslar is an area of 965 km2 in the state of Lower Saxony, Germany. The development of
the mining and smelting industry began 1,000 years ago. Altogether approximately 68 million tons of ores
were extracted. At the beginning of the 20th century 1 to 2 % of the world's production of lead and zinc
came from this area. About 6 % of the residential area is now dangerous waste area. They are
contaminated with lead, cadmium, arsenic, and zinc. Because of the continual emission, within 36 % of
the residential areas, the topsoil is polluted at levels of 1,000 mg of lead or 150 mg of arsenic per 1 kg of
soil.
The groundwater in the District of Goslar is contaminated in some areas. The severity of the
environmental problems have forced those responsible for the soil damage or contaminated sites to
cooperate together with land and lease owners and the environmental authority. The authority institute
practical and innovative ways to eliminate pollution.
2. EXAMPLES OF ACTIONS TAKEN
Evaluate whole areas of former industrial locations that are highly contaminated. The result would be to
negotiate a binding "Public Law Contract", within the obligatory steps of investigation and planning for
remediation and the goals would be defined.
3. COLLABORATIONS WITH TECHNICAL UNIVERSITIES, COLLEGES, AND OTHER
INSTITUTIONS
Combine remediation projects with the development of new areas. To insure a healthy standard of living
and continued use of the contaminated soil, the authority has passed the ordinance "Plans for Soil Areas ".
It's the first in Germany, in which standardized rules and measures of use are established for the
landowner. Work together with general puplic, the regional parliaments, the local councils, and media in
order to achieve the goals for remediation.
4. CONTACT
Juergen Bauer
Environmental Authority; Amt fur Wasser- und Bodenschutz
Klubgartenstrasse 6; D 38640 Goslar
juergen.bauer@landkreis-goslar.de
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NATO/CCMS Pilot Project on Non-Ferrous Mining January 2004
RISK REDUCTION OF MINING ACCIDENTS IN THE TISA BASIN
Adriana Eftimie
Romania
1. ABSTRACT
The 2000 tailing disposal facilities accidents in the Baia Mare region heightened concern in the
international community that tailing facilities represent a major risk to the environment, both in the short-
and long-term. They have increased public awareness of the environmental and safety hazards of the
mining industry and have shown that the risk assessment and prevention of tailing dams pollution
accidents have to improve. While the catastrophic releases provide heightened awareness, the continuous
erosion of mine tailings and unprotected mining and spoil disposal areas during high precipitation events
and flows could have a far greater impact on the environment and also raises concern.
After the two accidents in the Maramures region, the Government decided to amend its legislation to
address the safety of tailings storage facilities and is committed to improve the environmental
performance of the mining sector. A comprehensive Mining Sector Environmental Assessment (MSEA)
has been recently completed, and provides a baseline evaluation of the mines throughout the country. The
MSEA has identified that a large number of operating mining sites require urgent environmental
rehabilitation of their tailings and waste storage facilities to avoid catastrophic and continued releases of
highly persistent toxins, thus reducing the risk of mining accidents with long-term environmental
consequences.
The presentation refers to the upcoming "Hazards Risk Mitigation and Emergency Preparedness" Project,
co-financed by the World Bank, GEF and Romanian Government. One of its component is "Risk
Reduction of Mining Accidents in the Tisa Basin", which will support the implementation of pilot
projects for improving the safety and management of tailing and waste facilities, thus reducing the risk for
catastrophic release introduction of contaminants into surface waters contributing to the Tisa and Danube.
2. CONTACT
Adriana Eftimie
Director PIU
National Agency for Mineral Resources
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NATO/CCMS Pilot Project on Non-Ferrous Mining January 2004
MINING REMEDIATION TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENTS
AND INFORMATION RESOURCES
Walt Kovalick
United States
1. ABSTRACT
This presentation examines the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) programs and related efforts to
develop new remediation technologies for treating the environmental problems created by abandoned
mines. Abandoned mines pose an environmental threat that goes beyond pure aesthetics. Acid mine
drainage (AMD) and heavy metal releases contaminate the run off water from such sites. These releases
can result in contamination of surface and ground water, disruption of ecosystems, and changes to
groundwater regimes.
The EPA/DOE Mine Waste Technology Program is the principal agency program designed to find an
effective solutions to the problems caused by abandoned mines in the environment. Since 1991 the
program has been funded by the two federal agencies at levels of $2.5 - $7.5 per year and managed
by Montana State University. The focus is on development and demonstration of innovative
technologies at the bench and pilot scale stages in three priority areas: source controls, including in-situ,
"end of pipe" treatment technologies, and source recovery.
Two of the more promising case studies from the program are presented: The first was a two-stage
bioreactor able to neutralize the AMD without clogging the reactor with metal precipitants. The second
was a permeable reactive barrier designed to treat arsenic contamination using passive treatment; this
approach would be ideal for remote mine locations.
The presentation also provides information on one of the five Hazardous Substance Research Centers
(HSRC) in the U.S; this center includes a consortium of participants working towards improving the
technology and cost effectiveness for treatment of AMD and heavy metal runoff. The presentation also
details the results of a 10 week research project on the abandoned mine issue developed by an EPA
NNEMS intern. To receive more information on EPA's efforts on developing a viable treatment of AMD
and links to other helpful resources, visit EPA's Technology Innovation Program's website at
http://www.cluin.org.
2. CONTACT
Walter W. Kovalick, Jr.
Associate Director
Technology Innovation Program
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Washington, D.C. 20460
Kovalick.Walter@epa.gov
3. FOR MORE INFORMATION
For more information, visit these links:
• www. epa. gov/ORD/NRMRL/std/mtb/mwtphome .html
• www.engr.colostate.edu/hsrc
• www.cluin.org
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NATO/CCMS Pilot Project on Non-Ferrous Mining January 2004
THE ROSIA MONTANA PROJECT:
HOW A GOLD MINING INVESTMENT GIVES HOPE TO THE ENVIRONMENT
John Aston
Romania
1. ABSTRACT
The Rosia Montana gold and silver epithermal ore deposit is situated towards the top of the Rosia
Montana valley in the Apuseni Mountains in west-central Romania. The Rosia Montana gold and silver
ore deposit has been mined for over 2000 years. This was a jewel in the crown of both the Roman and the
Austrian-Hungarian Empires. More recently the site has gone through over 40 years of state-owned
underground and open-pit mining, with few environmental controls. Together these activities have created
a network of underground workings totalling more than 140 kilometres of tunnels, and are now an
extensive source of Acid Rock Drainage (ARD) in the region. The name "Rosia Montana" meaning "Red
Mountain" is partly due to the colour of the exposed leached rocks of the mountain but mainly due to the
red streams flowing down its valleys.
With the recent period of economically and environmentally non-sustainable operation drawing to a close,
the Rosia Montana mine is being privatised and redeveloped. The management of the new mine is faced
with the dual task of remediating two thousand years of aquatic pollution and complying with current or
foreseen Romanian, EU and World Bank environmental standards.
This paper identifies the major sources of pollution and shows how the project will manage this
environment in such a way as to not only remediate the years of historical pollution but also to meet or
exceed the requirements of all Romanian and EU environmental regulations.
2. CONTACT
John Aston
Environmental Manager
Aston Management Consulting
j ohn@astonmc. com
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NATO/CCMS Pilot Project on Non-Ferrous Mining January 2004
OBSERVATIONS ON MINE LIFE CYCLE ISSUES AND ACID DRAINAGE
Dirk Van Zyl
United States
1. ABSTRACT
The stages of the mine life cycle are: exploration, development (including baseline studies, environmental
impact assessment, financing, final design and construction), operations, closure, and post-closure.
Modern mines are designed to protect or enhance the environmental and community wellbeing at the
post-closure stage. Until the 1960's it was common to consider the end of operations as the end of the
mine life cycle and many mines were abandoned without any reclamation. Mine reclamation became
standard practice in the 1970's and 1980's and the philosophy of "designing for closure" has been
actively practiced since the 1990's. Designing for post-closure place certain expectations on the mining
company and the engineers and scientists involved in the enterprise. Much will be learned about this
approach in the upcoming decades. The results of a number of heap leach closure workshops are available
on www.unr.edu/mines/mlc.
Acid drainage is by far the largest environmental issue that faces the mining industry. Site
characterization and identification of the problem is extremely important during the exploration and
development stages of the mine life cycle. Unfortunately many operating mines are faced with this
problem without having identified it earlier in the life cycle. Mitigation strategies must then be developed
to limit the environmental impacts. These may often have significant economic impacts on the operations.
Mitigation strategies for acid drainage are divided into three categories: source control (controlling the
availability of one of air, sulfur or water), migration control and treatment. The latter two strategies have
received much attention through the design and construction of cover systems, water management
systems and active and passive treatment systems. Source control in the form of passivation of the
sulfides is a promising area of future acid drainage controls. DuPont donated a patent for permanganate
passivation to the University of Nevada, Reno. Since 1999 laboratory research and field scale tests have
shown the effectiveness of this technology. Water quality results of effluent from a pilot scale test at the
Gilt Edge Superfund site in South Dakota, that was partly sponsored by Region 8 of the USEPA, show
that discharge from the passivated materials satisfy effluent standards for pH, sulfates, and metals. The
effectiveness of the treatment is better than 99 percent when compared to the controls.
International cooperation on acid drainage issues is developing. The International Network on Acid
Prevention (INAP) has established a network for cooperation with the Acid Drainage Technology
Initiative (ADTI) in the USA, the Mine Environmental Neutral Drainage (MEND) program in Canada
and the Australian Centre for Mining Environmental Research (ACMER). Links to these activities can be
found at www.unr.edu/mine/adti.
2. CONTACT
Dirk van Zyl
Director, Mining Life-Cycle Center/MS 173
University of Nevada, Reno
Reno, NV 89557
dvanzyl@mines.unr.edu
3. FOR MORE INFORMATION
For more information, visit these links:
• www.unr.edu/mines/adti
• www.unr.edu/mines/mlc
• http: //ecorestoration .montana. edu
• http://eippcb.jrc.es-activities-public
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NATO/CCMS Pilot Project on Non-Ferrous Mining January 2004
ROMANIAN MINING INDUSTRY AND ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION:
NON-FERROUS MINING INDUSTRY
Cornel Florea Gabrian
Romania
1. ABSTRACT
Romania has a surface of 237.500 km2 and a population of 21,5 million inhabitants.
The mining industry in Romania has been practiced for more than 2000 years. The first written document
dates from the year 132 ad, and it was found in Rosia Montana ( Alburnus Major), Alba county. In the
Romanian mining industry work in present 96 economics agents, out of which:
• 3 national companies for coal which have 40 mining branches;
• 2 national companies for polymetalic, gold and silver ores which have 44 mining branches;
• 7 societies for non-metal ores;
• 10 societies for geological research; and
• 5 research institutes.
The general legal framework that regulates the environmental protection in the mining sector consists in:
• Waters Law nr. 107/1996;
• Environmental Protection Law nr. 13 7/1995 including modifications and additions, and subsequent
regulations;
• Safety Dams Law nr. 466/2001 and subsequent regulations;
• Prevention and Integration Control of Pollution Law nr.645/2002 and subsequent regulations; and
• Seveso Governmental Decision nr. 95/2003.
The mining industry impact on the environment refers to the following aspects:
• Emission of pollutants in air (NOx ;CO; SiO2 ;SO2);
• Emission of pollutants on surface and ground waters (heavy metals, sulfates, chlorites, carbonates and
others);
• Soil pollution;
• Hydrological changes in the area;
• Landscape changes in the area;
• Occupation of a large area of terrain for the exploitation activity, industrial facility, waste deposits
and tailing dam;
• Disturbing of natural habitats;
• Affects cultural and historical sites;
• Vibration effects caused by explosions; and
• Long term effects over the environment during activity and after the closure of the mining activity.
The main treatment method of the flotation wastewater is based on the chemical neutralization
and sedimentation of the tailing within large tailing ponds. The first tailing dam was built in
1961 and now there are 109 tailing dams out of which 50 are operational.
The Tailing disposal site types are:
• Valley disposal sites - 40 tailing dams;
• Slope disposal sites - 45 tailing dams; and
• Flat disposal sites - 24 tailing dams.
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NATO/CCMS Pilot Project on Non-Ferrous Mining January 2004
In the last period of time, the closure of inefficient mines and rehabilitation of mining sites starts
to become an important activity with regard to the environmental protection. In the period of
1990-2002 more than 200 mining sites were proposed for closure.
The costs for the closure of these mining sites are over 300 million USD, this closure operation being
financed by the state budget and by the loan from the World Bank.
The World Bank financed the elaboration of a Manual for the closure of the mining sites;
M.E.C., M.A.F.W.E. and N.A.M.R approved this manual.
2. CONCLUSIONS
• The mining activity has a strong impact on the environment;
• The environmental problems have been accumulated in time;
• The financial efforts for the closure of the mining sites and rehabilitation are high;
• Every year it's necessary to assure the operational costs for the treatment plant for the acid drainage
from the budget;
• The state has to assure the necessary funds for the safety of the tailing dams and waste deposits; and
• It's necessary to monitor the acid drainage and to mitigate this phenomenon.
3. CONTACTS
Cornel Florea Gabrian - Director
Ministry of Agriculture, Forests, Waters and Environment
Environmental Department Directorate of Integrated Monitoring, Permits and Compliance Control
4. FOR MORE INFORMATION
For more information, visit this link:
www.mappm.ro
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NATO/CCMS Pilot Project on Non-Ferrous Mining January 2004
NATO/CCMS OVERVIEW
Oliver Landour
Belgium
1. STRUCTURE OF PUBLIC DIPLOMACY DIVISION, THREATS AND CHALLENGES
SECTION
2. MAIN ISSUES
3. CHARACTERISTICS
CCMS established in 1969 as a complementary committee with the Science Committee and to give a new
"Social and Environmental" dimension for Alliance:
• Intergovernmental and open-ended cooperation (governments decide nature of their representation,
including institutes and universities)
• Work is carried out on decentralized basis (bottom-up approach)
• It provides a forum for exchange of views in social, health and environment (in particular defense-
related environmental problems)
• Nationally funded
• Voluntary participation
• Suggestions and recommendations to North Atlantic Council
• Regular Committee of the Council (Chairman is Assistant Secretary General for Public Diplomacy),
which meets twice a year in plenary session
4. MECHANISMS
• Pilot Studies (3-5 years)
• Short Term Proj ects (12-18 months)
• International Conferences, workshops, seminars, round tables
• Funded by the Pilot Country
• Participating NATO Countries cover the expenses of their experts
• Participation of experts from Partner Countries partially covered by NATO/CCMS
5. KEY OBJECTIVES
• Reducing the environmental impact of military activities
• PS on "Forms of Environmental Education in the Armed Forces and their Impact on Creation of Pro-
environmental Studies" (Poland/Canada)
• Conducing regional studies including cross-border activities
• PS on "Assessment of Natural Hazards" (Canada)
• PS on "Clean Products and Processes" (USA)
• Addressing emerging risks to the environment and society
• PS on "Environmental Decision-Making for Sustainable Development in Central Asia" (USA)
• Preventing conflicts in relation to scarcity of resources
• PS on "Integrated Water Management" (Belgium)
• Addressing non traditional threats to security
• PS on "Security of narrow waterways"
• PS on "Food Chain Security"
• PS on "Effective risk response strategies"
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NATO/CCMS Pilot Project on Non-Ferrous Mining January 2004
6. FRAMEWORK FOR INTERNATIONAL CO-OPERATION IN NATO/CCMS
• EAPC Action Plan
• NATO-Russia Founding Act
• NATO Ukraine Charter
• Mediterranean Dialogue
7. NEAR FUTURE
Two important workshops will be held in 2003 and 2004 in the framework of CCMS:
Mediterranean Dialogue: "Desertification, a security issue"
(2-5 December, Valencia, Spain)
Mongolia: "Rehabilitation of former military sites"
(Spring 2004, Ulaanbataar)
6. FOR MORE INFORMATION
For more information, visit this link:
www.nato.int/ccms
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NATO/CCMS Pilot Project on Non-Ferrous Mining January 2004
NON-FERROUS MINING IN CANADA
Lisa Keller
Canada
1. ABSTRACT
Mining is a principal economic resource in Canada. Potash and uranium are primary products, followed
by nickel, zinc, cadmium, aluminum, silver, titanium, copper, gold, molybdenum and salt. Today Canada
is the world's largest producer of nickel and potash and fifth-largest producer of diamonds. However,
more than a century and a half of mining has left a legacy of mine sites and environmental challenges
with a variety of contaminants and Acid Mine Drainage (AMD). Canada is making efforts to address the
legacy of the past and to ensure that similar contamination does not occur in the future.
2. CHALLENGES
As a nation, Canada is challenged by long distances, climate and governance issues. With over 9 million
square kilometers of land, we are second in size to Russia. Provinces of Ontario and Quebec are each
larger than most European countries. As well, the remote locations of many of our sites often limit the
application of conventional remediation technologies. Our extreme climatic conditions also hinder
cleanup programs. The northern regions of Canada experience inhospitably cold weather during the
winter months, with average temperatures in the range of-25C to -35C. These extreme temperatures also
limit the construction season to only a few months in the year and often require the construction of ice
roads to transfer site remediation equipment and supplies. Most contaminated sites in these remote areas
are the result of uncontrolled activities of former military sites, and abandoned or insolvent mines.
Negotiated treaty rights with Aboriginal peoples have placed the environmental management of
contaminated lands north of the 60th- parallel5 or^ "North of 60", under the responsibility of the federal
government. Most of the land south of the 60 falls under the jurisdiction of the provinces.
3. RESPONDING TO THESE CHALLENGES
Mining effluent in the North is currently one of Canada's important challenges. Contaminant quantities
are very large and extend over large areas. Communities living close to these mine sites often rely on
surface or ground water resources and on fish and wildlife for food, such as Aboriginal people who
traditionally live off the land.
In the past, mining companies in Canada were not required to set sufficient funds aside to cover the costs
for the eventual cleanup and closure on mine sites. Prior to 1993, financial security for environmental
restoration relating to mine closures in the North was limited. However, these limits have since been lifted
and the federal government now requires all mine operators in the north to establish a reclamation bond.
4. FEDERAL REGULATIONS ON CONTAMINATED SITES
Although there are no federal laws in place that specifically address the designation and remediation of
contaminated sites, the Fisheries Act and the Canadian Environmental Protection Act protect the
environment from further damage and the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME)
have established guidelines for the identification and management of contaminated sites. Most provinces
and territories adopt many of the CCME guidelines although many have developed their own specific
policies or regulations according to their needs.
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NATO/CCMS Pilot Project on Non-Ferrous Mining January 2004
5. METAL MINING EFFLUENT REGULATIONS
Metal mining effluent is regulated in Canada under the Fisheries Act (1985). In 2002, these regulations
were revised in cooperation with the Mining industry; Aboriginal peoples, environmental non-
governmental organizations; and provincial and territorial governments, as a further step to establishing
guiding principles and promoting best practices in maintaining sites and protecting human health and the
environment. The Metal Mine Effluent Regulations (MMER) apply to all metal mines in Canada. Under
the new regulations, "effluent" is defined as mine waters, milling facilities, tailings impoundment areas,
treatment ponds, or treatment facilities with seepage and surface drainage as a toxic substance. When the
revised guidelines came into force a year ago, the limits for metal and cyanide releases were modified to
prevent the discharge of effluent that is acutely lethal to fish and limits were modified for Total
Suspended Solids (TSS) and pH. The revised regulations also require mines to conduct Environmental
Effects Monitoring (EEM) Programs.
The modified MMER uses an ecosystem approach to environmental management and promotes the
concept of sustainable development. These regulations will create comprehensive and inflexible national
environmental standards that all Canadian metal mines must adhere to, including those mines opened
prior to the date that the new laws came into effect.
6. MINES MINISTERS CONFERENCE
In 2000, various governmental and non-governmental organizations and the mining industry
recommended that a workshop on abandoned and orphaned mines be held to review and identify key
concerns and priorities for action on this issue. This workshop has now become an annual conference for
Mines Ministers from federal and provincial governments. Priority issues in 2002 included the
development of a national inventory; the setting of standards and rational expectations; formation of
Aboriginal-Industry Partnerships, documentation of funding approaches; and, encouraging research and
development in identifying new industrial uses for gold and to promote its use.
As a result of the 2002 conference, a database of abandoned mine sites across the country is also being
developed. There are an estimated 10,000 abandoned mine sites in Canada. These sites, however, are not
well documented with respect to their numbers or risks to human health and the environment. This
inventory, once completed, will enhance our knowledge base which is imperative for the effective
management of these lands.
7. SUMMARY
Canada has made significant progress in the prevention of future contamination at mine sites. However,
continued development and application of innovative approaches along with long-term commitments are
essential to ensuring the management of human health and environmental risks at these sites.
8. FOR MORE INFORMATION
For more information, visit these links:
Federal Government
Department of Justice (Canada): Metal Mining Effluent Regulations
http://laws.iustice.gc.ca/en/F-14/SOR-2002-222/120314.html
Mines Ministers of Canada: Action Plan 2002
http://www.nrcan.gc.ca/mms/mmc/2002/aplan02 e.PDF
Abandoned Mine Sites of Canada
www.abandoned-mines.org
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NATO/CCMS Pilot Project on Non-Ferrous Mining January 2004
Contaminated Sites Management Work Group: Risk management Information and definition
http://www.ec.gc.ca/etad/csmwg/pub/risk mgmt/en/toc e.htm
Natural Resources Canada (NRCan): minerals and metals sector index and links for more information
http://www. mean.gc.ca/mms/mmi/1 e .htm#bp
(NRCan) summary of Canada's position in today's global mining industry
http://www.nrcan.gc.ca/communications/facts/factsnat e.html
(NRCan) Canadian mining FAQ's and other information resources
http://www.nrcan.gc.ca/mms/topi-suje/min e.htm
Office of the Auditor General (OAG): Links to reports regarding contaminated sites issues and other
environmental concerns
http://www.oag-bvg.gc.ca/domino/reports.nsf/html/c20021000aae.html
Chapter 3 of the Report of the Commissioner of the Environment
http://www.oag-bvg.gc.ca/domino/reports.nsf/html/c20021003ce.html
Non-Governmental Organization
Mining Watch Canada
http: //www .miningwatch. ca/
Mining Association of Canada: state of Canadian Mining and other information
http://www.mining.ca/english/publications/denver.pdf
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NATO/CCMS Pilot Project on Non-Ferrous Mining
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COUNTRY REPRESENTATIVES
Directors
Stephen C. James (Co-Director)
U.S. EPA National Risk Management Research
Laboratory
Office of Research and Development
26 W. Martin Luther King Drive
Cincinnati, OH 45268
United States
tel: 513-569-7877
fax:513-569-7680
e-mail: james.steve@epa.gov
Walter W. Kovalick, Jr. (Co-Director)
U.S. EPA,
Technology Innovation Program
Office of Superfund Remediation and
Technology Innovation,
Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response
1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW (5102G)
Washington, DC 20460
United States
tel: 703-603-9910
fax: 703-603-9135
e-mail: kovalick.walter@epa.gov
Country Representatives
Harald Kasamas
Ministry of the Environment
Division VI/3, Stubenbastei 5
A-1010, Vienna
Austria
tel: 4371-515-223-449
fax: 43/1-515-227-432
e-mail: Harald.Kasamas@bmlfuw.gv.at
Jacqueline Miller
Brussels University
Avenue Jeanne 44
1050 Brussels
Belgium
tel: 32/2-650-3183
fax: 32/2-650-3189
e-mail: jmiller@ulb.ac.be
Lisa Keller
Environment Canada
351 St. Joseph Blvd., PVM, .19d'floor
KIA OH3/ Gatineau, Quebec
Canada
tel: 819-953-9370
fax: 819-953-0509
e-mail: lisa.keller@ec.gc.ca
Kvetoslav Vlk
Ministry of the Environment of the Czech
Republic
Czeh Republic
Vrsovicka 65, 100 65 Praha 10
tel: 420 2671122765
fax: 420 2673103 05
e-mail: kvetoslav vlk@env.cz
Andreas Bieber
Federal Ministry for the Environment
Bernkasteler Str. 8
53175 Bonn
Germany
tel: 49/01888-305-3431
fax: 49/018888-305-2396
e-mail: bieber.andreas@bmu.de
Anthimos Xenidis
National Technical University of Athens 9,
Iroon Polytechneiou str., 157 80
Zografou
Greece
tel: 30/210-772-2043
fax: 30/210-772-2168
e-mail: axen@central.ntua.gr
Francesca Quercia
ANPA- Agenzia Nazionale per la Protezione
dell' Ambiente
Via V. Brancati 48
1-00144 Rome
Italy
tel: 39/6-5007-2510
Fax: 3 9/6-5 007-25 31
e-mail: quercia@anpa.it
Masaaki Hosomi
Tokyo University of Agriculture and
Technology
Nakamachi Koganei, Tokyo/184
Japan
tel: 81/423-887-070
fax: 81/423-814-201
e-mail: hosomi@cc.tuat.ac.jp
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NATO/CCMS Pilot Project on Non-Ferrous Mining
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Susete Martins Bias
1ST
Av. Rovisco Pais 1049 - 001 Lisbon
Portugal
tel: 35/121-841-9065/74
fax: 35/121-841-9062
loan Gherhes
Mayor's Advisor for Sustainable Development
City Hall, str. Gh. Sincai nr. 37
Baia Mare, Romania
tel: 40/262-212-961
fax: 40/262-212-9961
e-mail: igherhes@baiamarecity.ro
Branko Druzina
Institute of Public Health
Trubarjeva2, 1000 Ljubljana
Slovenia
tel: 386/1-244-1486
fax: 386/1-244-1423
e-mail: Branko.Druzina@ivz-rs.si
Pablo L. Higueras
Dpt. Ingenieria Geologica y Minera E.U.P.
Almaden University, Castilla-La Mancha
PI Manuel Meca, 1
13400 Almaden (C. Real)
Spain
tel: 34/926-264-007
fax: 34/926-264-401
e-mail: Pablo.Higueras@uclm.es
website: www.uclm.es/users/higueras
Theresa Kearney
Environment Agency
Olton Court, 10 Warwick Road, Olton
Solihull, B92 7HX
United Kingdom
tel: 44/121-708-4762
fax: 44/121-708-4637
e-mail: theresa.kearney@environment-
agencv.gov.uk
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ATTENDEES LIST
John Aston
Rosia Montana Gold Corporation
Romania
tel: 40/745-920-218
e-mail: john@astonmc.com
web: www.AstonMC.com
www.rosiamontanaproject.net
Horia Avram
Rosia Montana Gold Corporation
Romania
tel: 40/254-113-669
e-mail: epadeva@xnet.ro
Jurgen Bauer
Landkreis Goslar Amt fur Wasser-und
Bodenschutz,
Altlasten, D 38640
Goslar, Klubgarten str. 6
Germany
tel: 49/5321-76687
fax: 49/5321-76687
e-mail: juergen.bauer@landkreis-goslar.de
George Bockosh
National Institute for Occupational
Safety and Health
P.O. Box 18020
Cochraus Mill Rd
Pittsburg, PA 15236
United States
tel: 412-386-6465
fax: 412-386-6780
Brian Bone
Environment Agency
Olton Court, 10 Warwick Rd, Olton
Solihul, B92 7HX
United Kingdom
tel: 44/121-708-4762
fax: 44/121-708-4637
e-mail:
brian.bone@environment agency.gov.uk
Mircea Buesa
Ministry of Economy and Commerce
Mining and Geological Division
Bucharest, Romania
tel: 40/21-212-9617
fax: 40/21-313-9020
Grigore Burzo
National Agency for Mineral Resources
Local Inspectorate Baia Mare
Str. V. Babes nr. 62
Baia Mare, Romania
tel: 40/262-276-663
fax: 40/262-276-663
Gabriela Clean Poputa
S.C. Cupru Min S.A.
str. Petru Dobra nr. 1
oras Abrud, jud. Alba
Romania
tel: 40/258-780-710 or 40/258-780-083
fax: 40/258-780-296
Elisabeta Cserwid
National Administration
"Romanian Waters"
str. Edgar Quinet nr. 6
Bucuresti
Romania
tel: 40/21-315-5535/146
fax: 40/21-315-5536
e-mail: elisabeta.cserwid@rowater.ro
Marco D'Alessandro
JRC-CEC
Via Fermi, 21021 Ispra
Italy
tel: 39/0332-789-002
fax: 39/0332-785-601
e-mail: marco.dalessandro@jrc.it
Ludo Diels
VITO
(Flemish Institute for Technological Research)
Boeretang 200, B-2400 Mol
Belgium
tel: 32/14-33.51. 00
fax: 32/14-58.05.23
e-mail: ludo.diels@vito.be
Branko Druzina (c.r.)
Institute of Public Health
Trubarjeva2, 1000 Ljubljana
Slovenia
tel: 386/1-244-1486
fax: 386/1-244-1423
e-mail: Branko.Druzina@ivz-rs.si
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Adriana Eftimie
National Agency for Mineral Resources
Str. Mendeleev 36-38, Bucharest
Romania
tel: 40/21-212-8697
fax: 40/21-210-7440
e-mail: eftimie@namr.ro
Cornel Florea Gabrian
Director
Ministry of Agriculture, Forest, Waters and
Environment
Bd. Libertatii nr. 12
Bucharest
Romania
tel: 40/21-410-2067
e-mail: insp@mappm.ro
loan Gherhes (c.r.)
Mayor's Advisor for Sustainable Development
City Hall, str. Gh. Sincai nr. 37
Baia Mare, Romania
tel: 40/262-212-961
fax: 40/262-212-9961
e-mail: igherhes@baiamarecity.ro
Ovidiu Galca
General Director
C.N. Remin Baia Mare
PTa. Revolutiei nr. 1
Baia Mare, Romania
tel: 40/262-216-051
fax: 40/262-217-021
Dumitru Guran
Ministry of Economy and Commerce
Mining and Geological Division
Mines Closures Program
Bucharest, Romania
tel: 40/21-212-9790
fax: 40/21-212-9790
Pablo L. Higueras (c.r.)
Dpt. Ingenieria Geologica y Minera E.U.P.
Almaden University, Castilla-La Mancha
PI Manuel Meca, 1
13400 Almaden (C. Real)
Spain
tel: 34/926-264-007
fax: 34/926-264-401
e-mail: Pablo.Higueras@uclm.es
website: www.uclm.es/users/higueras
Masaaki Hosomi (c.r.)
Tokyo University of Agriculture and
Technology
Nakamachi Koganei, Tokyo/184
Japan
tel: 81/423-887-070
fax: 81/423-814-201
e-mail: hosomi@cc.tuat.ac.jp
Stephen C. James (Co-Director)
U.S. EPA National Risk Management Research
Laboratory
Office of Research and Development
26 W. M.L.K. Drive
Cincinnati, OH 45268
United States
tel: 513-569-7877
fax:513-569-7680
e-mail: james.steve@epa.gov
Marian Jelea
ICPM Baia Mare
Baia Mare North University
Romania
Harald Kasamas (c.r.)
Ministry of the Environment
Division VI/3, Stubenbastei 5
A-1010, Vienna
Austria
tel: 43/1-515-223-449
fax: 43/1-515-227-432
e-mail: Harald.Kasamas@bmlfuw.gv.at
Theresa Kearney (c.r.)
Environment Agency
Olton Court, 10 Warwick Road, Olton
Solihull, B92 7HX
United Kingdom
tel: 44/121-708-4762
fax: 44/121-708-4637
e-mail: theresa.kearney@environment-
agency.gov.uk
Lisa Keller
Environment Canada
351 St. Joseph Blvd., PVM, .19d'floor
KIA OH3/ Gatineau, Quebec
Canada
tel: 819-953-9370
fax: 819-953-0509
e-mail: lisa.keller@ec.gc.ca
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NATO/CCMS Pilot Project on Non-Ferrous Mining
January 2004
Walter W. Kovalick, Jr. (Co-Director)
U.S. EPA,
Technology Innovation Program
Office of Superfund Remediation and
Technology Innovation,
Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response
1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W. (5102G)
Washington, DC 20460
United States
tel: 703-603-9910
fax: 703-603-9135
e-mail: kovalick.walter@epa.gov
Oliver Landour
Assistant Program Director, NATO/CCMS,
NATO/CCMS
Bd Leopold III, B-l 110 Brussels
Belgium
tel: 32/2-707-39-19
fax: 32/2-707-42-32
e-mail: o.landour@hg.nato.int
Boi Marino
Progemisa SpA
via Contivecchi 7, 09122 Cagliari
Italy
tel: 0039-070-271681
fax:0039-070-271402
e-mail: marino.boi@progemisa.net
Angela Michnea
EPA Baia Mare
str. Iza nr. 1 A
Romania
tel: 40/262-276-304
fax: 40/262-275-222
e-mail: amichnea@apmbm.ro
Michael Nahir
Environmental Services Public Works &
Government Services Canada,
9815-90 Avenue, Edmonton, T6E 2T2
Canada
tel: 780-497-3862
fax:780-497-3842
e-mail: Michel.Nahir@PWGSC .GC .CA
Corneliu Negulescu
S.C. AQUAPROIECT S.A.
Spl. Independentei 294, Sector 6
Bucharest
Romania
tel: 40/212-211-671
fax: 40/212-216-763
e-mail: ioffice@aguaproject.ro
Vasile Oros
Prof - North University Baia Mare
str. Victor Babes nr. 62A
Baia Mare
Romania
e-mail: oros@ubm.ro
Vasile Pop
Prof - North University Baia Mare
str. Victor Babes nr. 62A
Baia Mare, 4800
Romania
tel: 40/262-421-343
fax: 40/262-275-550
e-mail: victoria@conseco.ro
Vlaicu Pop
National Administration
"Romanian Waters"
Maramures County Branch
Baia Mare, Aleea Hortensiei nr. 2
Romania
tel: 40/262-225-044
e-mail: sgamm@mail.multinet.ro
Marius Pascu
S.C. Transgold Baia Mare
Baia Mare
Romania
tel: 04262-275662
e-mail office@evalproteh.ro
Doina Rachita
WORLD BANK
Bd. Dacia 83, Bucharest
Romania
tel: 40/212-010-311
fax: 40/212-010-311
e-mail: Drachita@worldbank.org
Adina Relicovschi
Ministry of Agriculture, Forest, Waters and
Environment
EIA Project - Rosia Montana
bd. Libertatii nr. 12, Bucuresti
Romania
tel: 40/213-367-735
fax: 40/213-367-735
Nicolae Sasaran
Director ICPM S.A.
Baia Mare
Romania
tel: 40/262-275-440
fax: 40/262-275-632
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NATO/CCMS Pilot Project on Non-Ferrous Mining
January 2004
Dan Stematiu
Prof - Technical University
of Civil Engineering Bucharest
Bd. Lacul cu Tei 124,
Sect. 2 Bucuresti
Romania
tel: 40/212-421-163
fax: 40/212-420-781
e-mail: stematiu@hidro.utcb.ro
Korea Stoia
National Agency for Mineral Resources
Local Inspectorate Alba
Pta Unirii nr. 5
Zlatna, jud. Alba
Romania
tel: 40/258-856-761
fax: 40/258-856-761
Ileana-Doina Vasilescu
Ministry of Agriculture, Forest, Waters and
Environment
Bd. Carol I nr. 24
Bucharest
Romania
tel: 40/214-106-394
fax: 40/214-102-032
Kvetoslav Vlk
Ministry of the Environment of the Czech
Republic
Czeh Republic
Vrsovicka 65, 100 65 Praha 10
tel: 420 2671122765
fax: 420 2673103 05
e-mail: kvetoslav vlk@env.cz
Gheorghe Voinescu
Director EPA Baia Mare
Mr. 17anr. IA
Baia Mare
Romania
tel: 40/262-275-848
fax: 40/262-275-222
Konstantin Volchek
SAIC Canada
335 River Road
Ottawa, Ontario KIA OH3
Canada
tel: 1-613-990-7147
fax: 1-613-991-1673
e-mail: konstantin.volchek@saic.com
Anthimos Xenidis
National Technical University of Athens 9,
Iroon Polytechneiou str., 157 80
Zografou
Greece
tel: 30/210-772-2043
fax: 30/210-772-2168
e-mail: axen@central.ntua.gr
Dirk van Zyl
Director, Mining Life-Cycle Center
Department of Mining Engineering/MS 173
University of Nevada
Reno, NV 89503
United States
tel: 775-784-7039
fax: 775-784-1833
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NATO/CCMS Pilot Project on Non-Ferrous Mining
January 2004
Special Guests
Petru Lificiu
Secretary of State
Ministry of Agriculture, Forest, Waters and
Environment
Bd.Libertatii nr. 12, Bucharest
Romania
tel: 40/214-100-218
loan Buda
Perfect
Prefecture of Maramures
Str. Gh. Sincai, No. 46, Baia Mare
Romania
tel: 40/262-217-034
fax: 40/262-214-825
e-mail: perfect@prefectura.multinet.ro
Alexandra Cosma
President
Maramures County Council
Str. Gh. Sincai nr. 35, Baia Mare
Romania
tel: 40/262-212-110
fax: 40/262-213-945
Cristian Anghel
Mayor
Ma Mare Municipality
Str. Gh. Sincai nr. 37, Baia Mare
Romania
tel: 40/262-213-014
fax: 40/262-212-332
email: primar@baiamarecity.ro
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NATO/CCMS Pilot Project on Non-Ferrous Mining January 2004
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NATO/CCMS Pilot Project on Non-Ferrous Mining January 2004
PILOT STUDY MISSION
NATO/CCMS Pilot Study:
Prevention and Remediation Issues
in Selected Industrial Sectors
1. BACKGROUND TO PROPOSED STUDY
The current NATO Pilot Study on technologies for cleanup of contaminated land was completed in 2002.
The pilot study was concluded for several reasons. The primary reason is that general information on
technologies, processes, and methodologies for the cleanup of contaminated land and groundwater has
been discussed and distributed by the pilot study in its meetings and annual reports. Thus, the goal of the
pilot study has been accomplished. There is ongoing interest by participating countries and countries with
developing contaminated land programs to continue a dialogue, to focus on specific industrial sectors, and
to maintain technical contacts and information flow provided by the current "network" of pilot study
participants. Thus, a new pilot study is proposed to allow this long-standing global network on
contaminated land to continue.
2. PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES: NEW PILOT STUDY - SECTORAL APPROACH
Much of the work of the past pilot study on contaminated land has drawn on case studies of technologies
applied to a wide variety of industrial and land contamination settings. While useful for explaining the
basis for the technology, its costs, and applicability, the information available is not focused on certain
problems or site types at a variety of scales, contaminant concentrations, geological conditions, etc. Thus,
the current pilot study is a "technologist's" view of characterization and remediation approaches.
Of more relevance to governments, industry, and the remediation services industry is interpretive
information about the measurement and clean up of certain contaminants in specific industrial sectors in a
variety of hydrogeological settings and levels of severity of risk. In addition, environmental protection has
embraced more holistic concepts of preventing problems as a first priority. Thus, methods for preventing
pollution (both by process changes and by land use and planning initiatives) coupled with remediation
efforts are a priority for new and existing industrial development and for newly industrializing countries.
This "integrated" approach can positively affect land and groundwater contamination as well.
Thus, a new CCMS Pilot Study entitled Prevention and Remediation Issues in Selected Industrial
Sectors is proposed. The purpose of the proposed pilot study would be to define and explore best
practices for reducing the health and environmental impact on soil and groundwater from industrial
sectors of interest (e.g., metals mining, organic chemical production, gasworks, and fertilizer
manufacturing) as well as other unique site "types" (e.g., old landfills, privatization sites [i.e., facilities
transitioning from former state ownership in certain categories], mega sites [i.e., large-scale former
industrial and mining facilities], and shoreline sediment sites). In reviewing case studies as well as
experience from the current pilot study on contaminated land and other sources, the proposed pilot study
may be able to assess or benchmark "what is easy to clean," "what is difficult to clean," and "what is
impossible, at reasonable cost, to clean."
3. SCOPE OF WORK
The duration of the proposed pilot study is three (3) years. The study would commence by selecting
industrial sectors. The pilot study meetings would be devoted to the techniques and technologies for
preventing and avoiding discharge to soil and groundwater as well as measurement and remediation for
that industry sector or site type. Countries would nominate expert speakers on such topics as industrial
operations; problem definition and risk assessment; measurement and monitoring strategies; and
remediation approaches for both soil and ground water. These speakers could represent many
stakeholders - including industry, government, technologists, and consultants. The pilot study would seek
to engage industry and other private sector organizations at the transnational level in sharing and
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NATO/CCMS Pilot Project on Non-Ferrous Mining January 2004
evaluating technical information. The unique contribution of the pilot study would be measured by its
ability to synthesize information regarding best practices, successes and failures, and uncertainties for the
sectors of interest.
A typical pilot study meeting would explore topics such as:
• Industry overview and assessment including typical waste stream and contamination issues
• Risk assessment methodologies
• Preparedness and planning issues
• Site characterization and monitoring approaches
• Prevention and remediation strategies including technologies and methodologies
• Institutional, financial, and public participation aspects of prevention and remediation
In addition, countries would be given the opportunity to present a general update of prevention and
remediation activities via a Tour de Table as well as to provide country-specific industrial sector
information. A limited number of countries would be selected to provide these detailed updates at each
meeting.
It is proposed that the industrial sector of interest would be matched to the special interests to the potential
host country for the meeting. Thus, host countries would have primary responsibility for involving
industrial sector representatives and, possibly, developing a field visit to the affected sector.
4. ESTIMATED DURATION
Pilot Study Meetings: September 2003 - September 2005
Completion of Final Report: Spring 2006
5. PRODUCTS
An industrial sector report will be developed after each meeting. These reports will include invited papers
from the industrial sector assessments as well as summary information on the monitoring and evaluation
of risks and strategies for prevention and remediation. Country update reports will also be included.
6. NON-NATO PARTICIPATION: BALKANS, CENTRAL ASIA AND OTHER DEVELOPING
COUNTRIES
In 2001, NATO/CCMS identified key objectives that would assist developing countries. These objectives
include:
1. Reducing the impact of military activities
2. Conducting regional studies including cross-border activities
3. Preventing conflicts in relation to scarcity of resources
4. Addressing emerging risks to the environment and society that could cause economic, cultural and
political instability
5. Addressing non-traditional threats to security
The proposed pilot study, Prevention and Remediation Issues in Selected Industrial Sectors, specifically
addresses #4 and also covers aspects of #'s 1, 3, and 5. The proposed pilot study would target specific
industrial sectors based upon interests of countries with newly industrializing and developing economies.
The study would provide these countries with a base of technical information and with a network of
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NATO/CCMS Pilot Project on Non-Ferrous Mining January 2004
experts from whom to obtain advice. This proposal offers the opportunity for current pilot countries to
continue networking and information sharing, and also provides a focus for discussions driven by partner
country needs.
7. Request for Pilot Study Establishment
It is requested of the Committee on the Challenges of Modern Society that it approve the establishment of
the Prevention and Remediation Issues in Selected Industrial Sectors Pilot Study.
Pilot Country: United States
Lead Organization: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Proposed Sector/Schedule: Sector: Metals/Mining Sector
Date: September, 2003
Host Country: Romania
Location: Baia Mare, Romania
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