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Methodology to Prioritize Chilean Tailings Selection, According to Their Potential Risks.
Elizabeth J Lam1, Italo L Montofré2,3, Fernando A Álvarez2,4
1Chemical Engineering Department, Universidad Católica del Norte, Antofagasta CP 1270709, Chile.
Summary
Chile faces risks from heavy metal mine tailings. A new methodology identified 12 critical sites needing urgent treatment, prioritizing public health and environmental safety.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Geochemistry
- Risk Assessment
Background:
- Chilean mining legacy presents significant environmental challenges.
- Mine tailings contain hazardous heavy metals (Cu, Cr, Ni, Zn, Pb, As, Cd, Fe).
- These tailings pose potential risks to human populations and ecosystems.
Purpose of the Study:
- Develop a methodology to identify Chilean mine tailings requiring urgent treatment.
- Assess risks associated with heavy metal contamination from mine tailings.
- Prioritize remediation efforts based on identified risks.
Main Methods:
- Geochemical analysis of 530 Chilean tailings.
- Comparison with international soil quality guidelines (Dutch, Canadian, Australian).
- Geospatial analysis using QGIS to assess proximity to populations and water bodies.
- Application of Hakanson's methodology for ecological risk evaluation.
Main Results:
- Identified 12 critical tailings requiring immediate treatment.
- 195 tailings are within 2 km of populated areas; 154 are near water bodies.
- 347 tailings require intervention, with significant numbers contaminated by Pb and As.
Conclusions:
- A robust methodology for prioritizing mine tailings treatment has been established.
- Urgent intervention is needed for 12 critical sites and 347 deposits requiring attention.
- Geospatial and geochemical risk assessment is crucial for managing mining impacts.
