Abstract
Surface-strip coal mining, particularly in truck-and-shovel operations, is a highly disruptive land use activity that significantly alters landscapes typically affecting ten times more land than underground mining. Within the Witbank coalfields in the Mpumalanga province of South Africa, this form of mining has led to extensive environmental degradation, raising concerns over the long-term sustainability of post-mining land use.
This study investigates rehabilitation practices currently applied in these operations, with a focus on evaluating the effectiveness of existing methods and identifying practical, legislative, and financial challenges hindering successful land rehabilitation. A detailed review of current rehabilitation strategies was conducted, incorporating legislative frameworks, funding mechanisms, and operational constraints across active mining sites.
The findings revealed substantial deficiencies in the implementation of rehabilitation efforts, particularly regarding policy enforcement, coordination between stakeholders, and the allocation of financial resources. Based on these insights, the research proposes alternative approaches aimed at enhancing the sustainability and effectiveness of rehabilitation initiatives.
The study offers a scientifically grounded framework for sustainable post-mining land use, promoting environmental stewardship and supporting improved policy development. By integrating data from active sites and addressing the interests of industry, government, and local communities, this research contributes to advancing best practices in mine rehabilitation within the Witbank coalfields and similar region.