A Word From Our Sponsor: CIWEM

摘要

The interaction between waste and water in the environment is complex and extremely topical. In particular, a major issue is acid mine drainage, where acidic waters flow out of mining operations post-operatively. In many cases, sulphide minerals at the site are oxidised (often biologically mediated) as they come into contact with a water body leading to the production of sulphates. This releases ferrous iron from the sulphides (commonly pyrite) which oxidises into ferric iron and the resultant effect is a lowering of the pH and metals are kept in the solution. The acidic discharge can be directly toxic to wildlife and have a heavy sediment load which can increase water turbidity.