Mine Site Transformation
Mine Site Transformation
The mining industry is undergoing a transformative shift.
Traditionally seen as solely focused on extracting resources, in a circular economy, modern mining operations have the potential to be much more. Think beyond just extracting and selling commodities. Mines can become assets for carbon sequestration, for agriculture, for energy production...they can even become tourist destinations like the Hunter Valley motorsport park and racing track attraction built on the site of a former coal mine.
New Opportunities for Old Mines - As part of the NSW government’s ambition to repurpose old coal mines, the former Rhondda Colliery will be turned into the $95 million Black Rock Motor Resort featuring a 5.25km driving track, holiday villas, a go-kart course, driver training and adventure tourism experiences. While this may not be the best use for end-of-life mines in the Bowen Basin, it certainly opens up the mind to possibilities that go far beyond the traditional route of returning sites to grazing land.
New Opportunities
As part of the NSW government’s ambition to repurpose old coal mines, the former Rhondda Colliery will be turned into the $95 million Black Rock Motor Resort featuring a 5.25km driving track, holiday villas, a go-kart course, driver training and adventure tourism experiences. While this may not be the best use for end-of-life mines in the Bowen Basin, it certainly opens up the mind to possibilities that go far beyond the traditional route of returning sites to grazing land.
Unlocking Total Value Through Circularity
Currently the focus is on maximising extraction of a single commodity. This approach is susceptible to market fluctuations. But what if we shifted our perspective? By embracing a circular economy, mines can:
Diversify Value Creation - extract valuable minerals while considering the potential of byproducts and tailings for further use.
Turn Liabilities into Opportunities - mitigate environmental impact by actively sequestering carbon or creating new resources from waste materials.
Embrace New Revenue Streams - transform mines into assets for natural regeneration, tourism, sustainable agriculture or renewable energy production.
Let’s talk possibilities….
ECO-TOURISM
In Anglesea, the Eden Project has created a world class eco-tourism attraction on the site of a former coal mine. Projects like this can educate visitors about responsible resource management.
CLEAN ENERGY PRODUCTION
In Townsville, Genex Power’s 250MW Kidston Pumped Storage Hydro Project was built on an old gold mine, showing the opportunities to generate clean energy while utilising existing infrastructure.
CARBON DIOXIDE REMOVAL
In Colorado, Newmont is exploring rapid electrochemical mineralization to form dolomite (REMineD) methods. The project aims to advance the development of carbon dioxide removal technologies. It is seen as integral to meeting global climate goals.
FISH FARMING
In West Virginia, the Minaqua fish farm has sparked an inland fish farming industry on the site of an old coal mine pit.
