India’s biogeochemical capacity to attain food security and remediate climate
This study examines India's agrogeological resources in order to offer nutritious food while also mitigating climate change. Because of a lack of key minerals, many soils have low agricultural yields. Rock powder weathering benefits Indian soil productivity by helping to fertilise soils, lower atmospheric carbon dioxide levels, and halt acidification of the Indian Ocean. The nutrient density of food is also increased, which improves health while minimising the demand for and cost of medical treatment. Basic and ultrabasic rock dusts combined with biochar are extensively accessible at Indian mining sites to improve soil and plant nutrition.
In order to supply wholesome food and slow down climate change, this paper covers India’s agrogeological resources. The soils are the result of the weathering of rocks with ages ranging from more than a billion years to the most recent Holocene. Because they are severely deficient in vital minerals, many soils have low agricultural production. In addition to helping to fertilise soils, reduce atmospheric carbon dioxide levels, and stop the acidification of the Indian Ocean, rock powder weathering and biochar have significant positive effects on the productivity of Indian soils. The nutrient density of food is also increased which improves health and lowers the demand for and cost of medical treatment. Remineralization may help to solve Indian soil issues including soil infertility and texture. To improve soil and plant nutrition, dusts of carbonate, basic, and ultrabasic rocks are readily available at mining sites in India combined with biochar. Adding different grain sizes to the soil helps improve the texture of the soil. Silicate and carbonate rock powders enhance soil structure by promoting the creation of soil organic matter and fostering the growth of advantageous microbial communities. These processes offer a low-cost method of remineralizing soils with important macro- and micronutrients. For each significant soil/crop/climate system, an optimized application of India’s rock powder resources must be determined through a national research and development programme. India’s capacity to adapt to the mounting challenges of population expansion and climate change would be significantly improved by the findings of this study programme.
Experienced Geologist with a demonstrated history of working in the field of sediment geochemical & stable isotope studies from land and ocean for understanding paleoclimate, contaminated sediments, chemical weathering. Future research interests lies in nature based solutions for climate change, carbon capture and remineralizing the earth for soil nutrients with low cost agrominerals and contribute in achieving few of the UN sustainable development goals for making Earth a better place to live.
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Environmental Geochemistry and Health
This journal publishes original research papers and review papers across the broad field of environmental geochemistry. It aims to establish and explain links between the natural or disturbed chemical composition of the earth’s surface and the health of the ecosystem, animals and people.
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Management of Mining Impacts on Environment, Mine Reclamation and Mine Water Pollution
Mining activities disturb the land, resulting in deforestation, soil erosion, and loss of biodiversity. The removal of vegetation and topsoil exposes the land to wind and water erosion, leading to sedimentation in nearby water bodies. Additionally, the release of dust and particulate matter from mining operations contributes to air pollution, impacting human health and local wildlife. Mining also generates a substantial amount of waste, including overburden, tailings, and slag. These wastes, if not managed properly, can leach harmful chemicals into the soil and groundwater, posing long-term environmental risks. Heavy metals such as arsenic, lead, and mercury, often found in mine waste, are particularly concerning due to their toxicity and persistence in the environment.
Mine reclamation is the process of restoring land that has been mined to a natural or economically usable state. Effective reclamation involves reshaping the land to stable contours, replacing topsoil, and re-establishing vegetation to prevent erosion and promote ecosystem recovery. This process not only mitigates the visual impact of mining but also enhances the land's ecological value and usability. Reclamation strategies are increasingly incorporating sustainable practices such as the use of native plant species, which are better adapted to local conditions and provide habitat for wildlife. Innovative techniques like phytoremediation, using plants to absorb and sequester contaminants, are being explored to address soil and water pollution issues. The success of reclamation efforts is often dependent on careful planning and continuous monitoring to ensure that the restored ecosystems are resilient and self-sustaining.
One of the most persistent and challenging environmental issues associated with mining is water pollution. Acid mine drainage (AMD) is a particularly severe problem, occurring when sulfide minerals in exposed rock surfaces react with air and water to produce sulfuric acid. This acid leaches heavy metals from the rock, creating highly acidic and metal-laden runoff that can devastate aquatic ecosystems and contaminate drinking water supplies. Managing mine water pollution requires a combination of preventive and remedial measures. The integration of sustainable practices into mining operations is essential for minimizing environmental impacts and ensuring long-term environmental health. Sustainable mining practices involve the adoption of advanced technologies and methodologies that reduce waste, conserve resources, and protect ecosystems. For instance, the use of remote sensing and geospatial technologies can improve the precision of mining activities, reducing unnecessary land disturbance and optimizing resource extraction.
The management of mining impacts on the environment, effective mine reclamation, and the control of mine water pollution are interconnected challenges that require comprehensive and integrated approaches. This special issue aims to explore the latest research, developments, and case studies in these critical areas, providing insights and solutions for achieving sustainable mining operations.
Specific topics include (but not limited)
• Mining Impacts on Soil and Vegetation
• Air Quality and Dust Control in Mining Operations
• Heavy Metal Contamination from Mining Waste
• Impact of Mining on Local Climate and Microclimates
• Reclamation Planning and Landform Design
• Vegetation and Soil Restoration Techniques
• Economic and Social Aspects of Mine Reclamation
• Acid Mine Drainage (AMD): Causes and Mitigation
• Treatment Technologies for Mine Water
• Case Studies of Mine Water Management
• Impact of Mine Water Pollution on Aquatic Ecosystems
• Sustainable Mining Technologies and Innovations
• Remote Sensing and GIS in Environmental Monitoring
Publishing Model: Hybrid
Deadline: Aug 31, 2025
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