Environmental Effects Caused by Utilising Copper Mine Tailings in Various Geotechnical Applications – A Review

Based on the available literature this paper evaluates the environmental effects of copper mine tailings (CMT) when used as structural fill material in various geotechnical applications. Leaching of heavy metals from the CMT is considered as the vital factor hindering its wider acceptability among researchers and engineers. Therefore, apart from physical and chemical characteristics, due consideration was given to assess the leachability of CMT when used as structural fill in various geotechnical applications like subgrade, embankment, fill and reclamation. From the literature review, it was found that CMT seems to be satisfying the criteria meant for structural fill. Leachability test results show that only a very few elements concentration exceeded the limits in un-stabilized form. Stabilized CMT performed better by bringing down the concentration well below the permissible limits in all the application types. This encourages the utilization of CMT in structural fills and shows that environmental impacts are within the limits prescribed in standards.

A review of guidelines for sustainable municipal waste management: selected best practices on Brazilian cities

Current integrated management systems involve several dimensions since sustainability has amongst its fundamental principles the protection of the public health and the minimization of environmental, social, and economic impacts. This work aimed to present a review of guidelines for achieving integrated sustainable waste management presenting a selected best practice in Brazilian cities. A systematic literature review was undertaken to identify the current systems and best practices in waste management. The results evidenced the significant role played by all the actors involved (population, private sector, authorities, non-governmental organizations). Political, legal, and institutional guidelines ensure adequate management planning through technical studies, drafting of legislation, and technical and operational structure for the provision of services. The economic aspects guarantee the financial sustainability of the system. The socio-environmental guidelines provide for the minimization of environmental impacts through the reduction of waste generation and social inclusion. The best practices in Brazil showed that municipalities that adopt sustainable integrated management have higher rates of recycling, social engagement, social inclusion, economic sustainability, and reduced impacts on the environment. These guidelines serve as a planning tool for any local government to structure an integrated sustainable waste management system.