Using mining waste for CO2 sequestration: exploring opportunities through mineral carbonation, nature-based solutions, and CCUS

• Published in: International journal of mining, reclamation and environment Vol. 38; no. 6; pp. 425 - 441
• Main Authors: Weiler, Jéssica, Tassinari, Colombo Celso Gaeta, De Aquino, Thiago Fernandes, Bonetti, Beatriz, Viola, Vanessa Olivo
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Abingdon Taylor & Francis 02.07.2024; Taylor & Francis Ltd
• Subjects: Carbon dioxide; Carbon dioxide emissions; Carbon dioxide fixation; Carbon sequestration; Carbonation; CCUS; Coal mine wastes; Coal mining; Emissions; Emissions control; Greenhouse gases; Mine wastes; mineral carbonation; Mining; NBS; Reclamation; Revegetation; Silicates; sustainable mining; Sustainable production; Tailings; Topsoil; Underground mining; Waste disposal; Waste management
• ISSN: 1748-0930; 1748-0949
• DOI: 10.1080/17480930.2024.2318132

Using mining waste for CO 2 sequestration presents a promising solution for managing waste and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This article provides a comprehensive overview of established CO 2 sequestration methods that can be applied to mining waste eligible for such application. Three techniques were considered: 1) passive mineral carbonation; 2) a nature-based solution (NBS); and 3) carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS). Passive mineral carbonation involves exposing mining waste rich in Ca and Mg silicates to atmospheric CO 2 . NBS explores the reclamation of disposal areas, estimating the carbon sequestration by topsoil, organic amendments, and revegetation. CCUS presents some storage possibilities with CO 2 injection into waste piles and utilisation by incorporating waste and CO 2 into cement products. Furthermore, an innovative proposal for injecting CO 2 into surface and underground coal mining waste disposal areas was described as a potential action. The strategies presented in this article can be considered to offset CO 2 emissions from mining projects while also contributing to waste management and more sustainable production.