Mining, a pivotal societal contributor, furnishes crucial resources for diverse industries. However, mining operations exert significant environmental impact, necessitating subsequent environmental repair and rehabilitation. The importance of addressing both environmental and social implications in mine closure planning is escalating.

Under legal mandates, mining companies must formulate thorough closure plans, specifying the site's final condition, required measures, anticipated expenses, and financial assurances for effective closure execution. Accurately estimating closure costs, though challenging, is crucial to secure sufficient funding for rehabilitation.

In Brazil, mining site closures often diverge from initial plans, with closure efforts mistaken for rehabilitation. Responding to this, regulatory bodies are fortifying requirements for new projects, enhancing mine closure laws by mandating a comprehensive Mine Closure Plan (MCP) covering decommissioning, rehabilitation, and post-closure activities.

Recognizing, evaluating, and addressing mining site risks in a standardized manner is imperative. This includes ensuring the stability of the mining area in biological, physical, and chemical aspects, averting unintended emissions, and tackling issues like acid drainage. Groundwater geochemistry, particularly concerning mine acid drainage, assumes a vital role. Closure of underground mines involves flooding and continual water level monitoring, while open-pit mines necessitate efforts to repurpose the area for new economic or social activities.

Adhering to standardized criteria is essential to effectively manage the environmental and social impact of mining activities. By prioritizing comprehensive closure planning and adherence to environmental and social considerations, the mining industry can strive to minimize its environmental footprint and champion responsible post-mining practices for a sustainable future.