What innovations are shaping environmental solutions for mine closures?

Technical teams now use scenario modelling and detailed risk assessments to select solutions that meet water quality objectives and minimise future liabilities. Here are some approaches:

• Addressing emerging contaminants: PFAS

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) pose long-term risks to soil and water but are often overlooked early (and even throughout) closure planning. Mining companies should proactively integrate PFAS assessment and mitigation into both operations and closure. This proactive stance protects water supplies and ecosystems and aligns with broader environmental stewardship commitments.

• Landform design and reclamation

Designing landforms that are both stable and natural-looking blends science and craft. Stability must be addressed at multiple scales, from erosion control to moderately scaled instabilities, through to preventing large-scale failures. Confidence comes from thorough investigation, analysis and progressive trials. Slope stability analysis, which often requires extensive drilling and detailed geotechnical assessment and collaboration, is essential.

Once technical requirements are met, reclamation can begin. In some contexts, simple measures, such as scattering stumps and rocks, can help jump-start habitat formation. The objective is landforms that need minimal long-term monitoring and maintenance, paired with effective surface water management to prevent downstream flooding or hazards.

Ground movement monitoring is also critical, providing baseline data to confirm landforms perform as modelled. As confidence grows, monitoring can be scaled back from intensive oversight during operations to minimal intervention post-closure.

• Digital tools and predictive modelling

Digital innovation is reshaping closure planning and monitoring. Geographic information systems (GIS), artificial intelligence (AI) and drones are increasingly used to collect data, visualise performance and streamline assessments. Drones efficiently cover inaccessible areas and enable photogrammetry and 3D modelling for accurate site analysis.

GIS capabilities have advanced significantly, and light detection and ranging (LiDAR) data is now commonly used to enhance precision. Though still emerging in places, predictive modelling is already helping teams anticipate risks, optimise remediation strategies and make data-driven decisions.

• Infrastructure and asset management

Closure extends beyond the mine to adjacent infrastructure such as smelters and refineries. Coordinating these moving parts requires disciplined asset management. The first step is a comprehensive inventory to determine what to sell, relocate, recycle or scrap, including repurposing infrastructure for local and Indigenous communities. Using a five-year rolling average to assess scrap value can smooth market fluctuations and support realistic financial projections.

Effective asset management can sometimes turn a costly demolition into a zero-cost project by recognising and leveraging scrap value. Clear technical specifications and bid documents help contractors understand asset value, preventing undervaluation and maximising returns.

Innovations in science and digital technology, as well as strong community engagement, can help mine closures move beyond compliance to deliver long-term environmental and social value.

The Windsor Gypsum mine closure in Eastern Canada, led by Canadian Gypsum Corporation, restored over 1,000 acres of quarries, ponds, wetlands and overburden piles. The project improved environmental conditions, enhanced safety and prioritised community and First Nations interests, establishing a long-term land use plan aligned with the area’s natural character.

We supported the project through technical environmental studies, engineering assessments, water modelling and stability surveys. We utilised advanced tools such as LiDAR and bathymetric mapping, and worked closely with community and First Nations groups to oversee the safe decommissioning of infrastructure. Together, we delivered a sustainable closure, fulfilling both regulatory requirements and community needs.