The extraction and processing of mineral resources, whether from oil sands, coal, or metal mines, generate large volumes of mine wastes, including fluid tailings, waste rock, and other by-products that pose long-term environmental challenges. In the case of oil sands, fluid tailings are comprised of processed water, sand, silt, clay, and residual constituents such as bitumen, diluent, and sulfide minerals like pyrite. In metal and coal mining, tailings may contain finely ground rock, processing chemicals, and trace metals, all of which require thoughtful management to prevent environmental degradation. Given their scale and complexity, mine waste deposits are expected to comprise significant portions of closure landscapes worldwide, and returning these sites to stable, sustainable ecosystems remain one of the most pressing challenges faced by industry, regulators, and society.
Reclamation goals across mining sectors focus on reconstructing functioning landscapes that support ecological, hydrological, and geotechnical stability. Achieving success depends on advances in material characterization, landform design, soil cover development, water management, and reclamation practices. Material characterization of tailings and waste rock is central to this process, as it informs the design of soil covers, the selection of plant communities, and the prediction of long-term performance. The reclamation of consolidated tailings and mine wastes is a relatively new and evolving field of research that requires innovative approaches and interdisciplinary collaboration among soil scientists, geologists, engineers, hydrologists, and ecologists.
This session aims to highlight the latest research and practical advances in tailings and mine waste characterization, landform construction, and reclamation strategies across a range of mining contexts. By sharing insights from oil sands, metal mining, and other sectors, we hope to build broader awareness of the challenges and opportunities associated with post-mining landscapes. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that reclamation efforts deliver functional, resilient soils and ecosystems that will endure for future generations.