Halophytes and desertification control in Iraq

Al-Farrajii, F.A.H.; Al-Hilli, Majeed R.

doi:10.1007/978-94-011-0818-8_20

Cited by 1 publication

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“…Thus, if salinity can be reduced, the mine water could safely be used for local agriculture. If not, the water could be used to grow halophytes for animal fodder, as reported by Le Houérou et al [41] and El Shaer et al [42], to prevent desertification and reclaim the area of overburden deposition from the open-pit mine [43]. The agriculture and stock-farming industries in Mongolia account for 12% of the gross domestic product, with pastures accounting for 98% of cropland and 75% of the country's total area [2].…”

Section: Salinity Hazardmentioning

confidence: 99%

Environmental Sustainability of Open-Pit Coal Mining Practices at Baganuur, Mongolia

et al. 2019

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In this paper, we studied one of the largest coal mines in Mongolia, the Baganuur Coal Mine, in terms of environmental sustainability related to mining practices, with a focus on discharged water and waste sediments. The present quality and potential for future pollution were assessed. Based on World Health Organization and Mongolian guidelines, groundwater pumped from the mining operations could be used for drinking and domestic purposes. In addition, based on the Na absorption ratio, groundwater samples from GW-2 and GW-3 could be used as agriculture water supplies with salinity reduction, or used to grow halophytes as a measure for desertification control and pasture production. All waste soil samples appeared to have a desertification potential. Dust particles smaller than 150 μm comprised more than 80% of soil samples, which had arsenic levels higher than the Mongolian soil pollution standards. In addition, soil collected between coal seams (S-5) showed high sulphur content based on X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and scanning electron microscopy–energy dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX) spectroscopy analyses, strong potential for producing acid mine drainage in the analysis of pH of net acid generation and net acid production potential, and potential for leaching of metals, such as Co. Therefore, the Baganuur Coal Mine requires soil pollution control measures to mitigate the risks of dust and desertification. In this perspective, mine groundwater could be used to reduce environmental stresses by supporting pasture crops such as halophytes on waste disposal sites, thereby preventing dust issues and desertification. Continuous efforts, including monitoring and enacting environmental management measures, are needed from both the mining company and the government to ensure sustainable mine development.

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Section: Salinity Hazardmentioning

confidence: 99%