Regulation and remediation of the impacts of mine wastes on land and water in South Africa

Abstract

A concerning phenomenon in South Africa’s mines is the huge quantities of waste generated by the mines. The problem is historical in that there was existing land and water contamination from previously generated waste, often from now abandoned mines, of which there are many. But the problem is also current, as mines continue to aggravate concerns about the hazards of mine waste for the health and well-being of people and the environment. South Africa has little arable land and water is scarce. Compromising these resources has implications for food security and access to clean water. There are processes that can ameliorate the harmful effects of mine wastes on environmental safety and food security in South Africa. These processes enable the evaluation of soil and water quality and the extraction of pollutants, such as heavy metals and metalloids, aiming to achieve land and water quality that is suitable for alternative and sustainable use of previously contaminated land and water resources. The implementation of such processes in South Africa relies on a legal framework that provides minimum standards and guidelines for land and water remediation. However, flaws in the legal framework impair functioning in the sector. Poor implementation and compliance with existing laws make matters worse. The effects show on the environment.