The climate crisis and rising demand for critical minerals requires the development of new mining techniques. Adding microbes to old mine waste is one way to recover critical metals as well as capture and store carbon.
“This technology is a potential game-changer in the fight against climate change, and the mining industry has a unique opportunity to play a significant role in the future of green energy,” says Dr. Jenine McCutcheon, an assistant professor in the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences.
This microbial technique offsets some of the emissions released while the mine was active and helps stabilize mine waste. Adopting this approach of reusing tailings could transform the mining industry and create a greener and more sustainable future.
Please visit Waterloo News to learn more about this microbial mining technique.