REMEDIATION OF A TAILING POND IN EASTERN SLOVAKIA

Abstract

In Eastern Slovakia, due to extensive chemical production in the past, especially production of explosives, and continuing combustion of coal, toxic chemicals, PCBs, fly ash and other substances are stored in a tailing pond. The current state of the tailing pond and the surrounding area, as well as its impact on the environment is analysed. Based on the results of the analysis remediation of the tailing pond is suggested. The closure of the tailing pond, including stabilisation of the pond material and the treatment of the pond surface, is designed. The result of the study proposes two possibilities of the use of pond after remediation – for growing crops as biomass and for building of a recreation and regeneration centre. In both the proposals, their advantages and disadvantages were evaluated. Reclamation will take place through a combination of technical and biotechnical stages. These proposals would be a great plus and benefit not only for the tailing pond but also for the environment and the surroundings of the pond.