Plantations as a tool for mine spoil restoration

Abstract

Because of large-scale destruction of natural areas due to mining operations, a restoration strategy is needed as a part of the overall mining management plan. In restoration, emphasis is given first to build soil organic matter, nutrients and vegetation cover to accelerate natural recovery process. Tree plantations can be used as a tool for mine spoil restoration as they have ability to restore soil fertility and ameliorate microclimatic conditions. We discuss here various approaches of ecosystem restoration on mine spoil, criteria for the selection of plantation species and future research needs in this regard.