In the heart of China’s coal-rich regions, a groundbreaking study is reshaping how we think about mining and water management. Led by Xiaomin Liu from the Water Conservancy and Civil Engineering College at Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, this research delves into the intricate relationship between coal mining and water resources, offering a roadmap for sustainable development in the energy sector.
The Mu Us Sandy Land, a vast expanse in northern China, is a testament to the ecological fragility that often accompanies coal mining. As mining activities intensify, the delicate balance between resource extraction and environmental protection becomes increasingly precarious. Liu’s study, published in the journal ‘Meitan kexue jishu’ (translated as ‘Coal Science and Technology’), aims to address this challenge head-on.
At the core of Liu’s research is the concept of green mining, which seeks to minimize the environmental impact of coal extraction. By applying life cycle theory, Liu and her team analyzed the stage-specific impacts of coal mining on water resources. “Understanding these stages is crucial for developing strategies that can mitigate adverse effects and promote sustainable practices,” Liu explains.
The study identified 23 key influencing factors across six aspects: hydrogeology, natural resources, mining impact, ecological environment, coal mine disasters, and social economy. These factors were then integrated into a comprehensive influence index system, providing a holistic view of the challenges and opportunities in coal-water coordinated mining.
One of the most innovative aspects of Liu’s work is the development of a “multi-cone common base” model. This model uses a sharp-cone network analysis method optimized by coning rules to explore the interaction and feedback relationships between various factors. “The model helps us visualize the complex interplay between different elements, allowing us to identify critical areas for intervention,” Liu notes.
The findings reveal that the mining impact system has the highest weight ratio, followed by the coal mine disaster system. This underscores the need for robust strategies to manage mine water inflow and utilization rates, which were found to have significant weights in the analysis. Liu emphasizes the importance of focusing on the three processes of mine water source, generation, and utilization to achieve coordinated green and high-quality development of coal-water resources.
The implications for the energy sector are profound. As coal remains a critical component of the global energy mix, finding ways to extract it sustainably is essential. Liu’s research provides a framework for balancing ecological health and mine safety, ensuring that coal mining can coexist with environmental protection.
Moreover, the study highlights the potential for coal resource elements to support local economic development. By strengthening the role of coal in high-quality economic growth, regions can achieve green and high-quality development of their coal and water resources.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, Liu’s work offers a beacon of hope for sustainable mining practices. By addressing the complex interplay between coal mining and water resources, this research paves the way for a future where economic development and environmental stewardship go hand in hand. The insights from this study, published in ‘Meitan kexue jishu’, are set to influence future developments in the field, guiding policymakers, industry leaders, and researchers toward a more sustainable and resilient energy landscape.
