Discourse on scientific advancements in mining ecological restoration

In the light of the diverse and extensive nature of mining in China, characterized by a multitude of types, vast quantities, and widespread locations, this study systematically synthesizes theories, techniques, and methods for the restoration of different types of mineral resources and various geographical units. For coal mines and non-metallic mines, priority is given to addressing geological safety hazards, employing engineering measures such as topography reshaping, soil reconstruction, and vegetation restoration. Oil and gas mines as well as metal mines focus on addressing environmental pollution issues, utilizing a comprehensive range of physical, chemical, and biological technologies for restoration. Considering the differences in natural resource endowments across different geographical units, the study integrates the distinct characteristics of ecological elements such as mountains, rivers, forests, fields, lakes, grasslands, and sands. It accommodates the inherent principles of ecological restoration techniques in different geographical units and delineates the zoning for mining ecological restoration based on ecological functional characteristics, ecosystem features, and environmental conditions. With reliance on technical suitability analysis, a mining ecological restoration model that combines natural recovery with artificial restoration is proposed. The study extensively analyzes the progress in key areas such as the development of mining ecological restoration standards, legal construction, and public participation. It elaborates on the current status of theoretical research in mining ecological restoration and systematically explores the integration path of technological development and theoretical construction. As the pace of ecological civilization construction accelerates in the new era and the concept of integrated protection and restoration of mountains, rivers, forests, fields, lakes, grasslands, and sands deepens, the scientific advancement of mining ecological restoration is bound to concentrate efforts in planning and design, technological breakthroughs, standard development, legal construction, public participation, and coordinated promotion of green development of mineral resources and ecological protection and restoration of mines. Then it can provide an effective reference for promoting harmonious coexistence between humans and nature.