Coal mining on the Highveld and its implications for future water quality in the Vaal river system
The report examines the environmental impact of coal mining in South Africa's Highveld, particularly water pollution in the Vaal River system.
(Generated with the help of GPT-4)
| Quick Facts | |
|---|---|
| Report location: | source |
| Language: | English |
| Publisher: |
University Of The Witwatersrand |
| Authors: | J P Pretorius, T S Mccarthy |
| Geographic focus: | South Africa, Highveld, Witbank, Vaal River System |
Methods
The research method involved examining historical data, assessing the environmental impacts of coal mining, and evaluating the effectiveness of mitigation strategies. The study drew on experiences from the Witbank area to predict future scenarios for the Vaal River system.
(Generated with the help of GPT-4)
Key Insights
This research report investigates the long-term environmental impacts of coal mining in the Witbank region of South Africa, which has been mined for over a century. It focuses on the severe problem of water pollution, which is worsening despite mitigation efforts. The study uses the Witbank area's experience to predict future scenarios for other Highveld river catchments, especially the Vaal River. It discusses the history of coal mining, the methods used, and the environmental problems that have arisen, such as acid mine drainage, destruction of groundwater reservoirs, and the disposal of contaminated water. The report also evaluates the effectiveness of various mitigation strategies and the potential future costs of water purification. It concludes with a warning about the long-term threats to the Vaal River basin and other catchments, suggesting a moratorium on new mining applications until the cumulative impact of mining is fully understood and adequate mitigation can be guaranteed.
(Generated with the help of GPT-4)
Additional Viewpoints
Categories: English publication language | Highveld geographic scope | South Africa geographic scope | Vaal River System geographic scope | Witbank geographic scope | acid mine drainage | acidification | catchments | coal mining | environmental impact | finance | groundwater | groundwater reservoirs | long-term effects | mitigation strategies | policy recommendations | vaal river | vaal river basin | water pollution | water purification costs | water quality | witbank coalfield