Mapping and GIS
The comprehensive mapping of AMD in South Africa highlighted the dual challenge and opportunity presented by AMD-impacted sites
Utilizing advanced GIS and Machine Learning (ML) techniques, the project successfully identified and quantified AMD across various mining sites, despite limited data availability, emphasizing the critical need for accurate geospatial data to address environmental and economic challenges effectively.
This initiative undertook rigorous field inspections and remote sensing methods to delineate AMD extents, characterizing these areas not just as ecological liabilities but also as potential repositories of critical raw materials. By mapping the concentration and distribution of these materials within AMD sites, the project revealed substantial untapped economic potential.
The results indicated a much larger distribution of mines and AMD storage areas than reported in online databases, underscoring the importance of precise and integrated environmental data to facilitate effective resource management and recovery strategies. The mapping efforts provided a foundational understanding that could drive policy development, encourage sustainable extraction initiatives, and promote a more informed approach to environmental remediation and economic utilization of AMD sites.
