Tags:Circular economy, Construction materials, Phosphate mine waste rocks, SDGs and Valorization
Abstract:
Mine waste, the largest waste stream in the EU from mining and minerals processing, presents significant environmental challenges. Annually, mining activities generate over 100 billion tons of mineral waste globally. To address severe environmental issues and adopt effective waste management strategies, the valorization of mine waste aligns with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Agreement. By reducing waste generation, mine waste recycling can contribute to SDG11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and SDG12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). Adopting a circular economy (CE) concept in the mining industry is necessary to resolve environmental pollution and minimize waste while generating economic profits. The mining industry has high potential to move towards a CE approach by utilizing waste at different life cycle stages to create eco-friendly products. Mine waste can be a sustainable source of alternative materials for construction applications, such as clinker, bricks, aggregates, mortars, concrete, and geopolymers. By updating laws and regulations, the construction sector can enable the reuse of mining waste materials, supporting the implementation of CE policies. While some countries have advanced in implementing CE, caution is needed as there is no standardized approach to determine the sustainability of a specific CE strategy. Overcoming technological limitations, addressing environmental concerns, and establishing effective regulatory frameworks are crucial for successful CE implementation in the mining industry.
Recycling of Mine Wastes in the Construction Sector for Sustainability and the Circular Economy