| Project Attribute | Project Details |
|---|---|
| Project Title | Use of constructed wetlands for treating mine waste leachates – predicting longevity and management implications |
| EPA Project Code | 2018-W-DS-32 |
| Lead Organisation | University of Limerick (UL) |
| Coordinator | Ronan Courtney |
| EPA Research 2014 – 2020 Theme(s) | Water: Theme 3: Innovative Water Technologies EPA Research Pillars |
| Project Start and End Dates | Start: 01/03/2019 End (if applicable): 29/02/2020 Revised End Date (if applicable): 29/08/2020 |
| EPA Project Type | Desk Study |
| EPA Award Type | STRIVE – Project Based Awards |
| Current Project Status | Grant Awarded |
| Total Funding Amount | 70093.80 |
| Project Abstract/Description | Constructed wetlands (CW) are increasingly employed for leachate treatment as part of closure planning for mine sites; however their life expectancy and longevity of performance is relatively unknown and no long-term studies have been carried out in Ireland. This proposed study will develop an international database on the use of CW systems treating mine wastes with the objective of identifying key operating parameters and longevity of such systems. Through sampling and analysis of established CW systems at Boliden Tara Pb/Zn mine and Rusal Aughinish alumina processing plant, a series of soil saturation index studies will contribute to our understanding of the removal mechanisms for contaminants of concern. Additionally the influence of leachate characteristics (e.g. pH, suspended solids, predominance of metal types) on removal efficiencies will be investigated. Understanding the capacity of CW systems to treat these complex metal mixtures will contribute to assessing their expected lifespan and the requirements for intervention and management post-closure. This project directly relates to the current EPA research strategy, in particular its requirement to mitigate the negative environmental, social and health impacts of the raw materials sector. This project will produce a report and database (placed in the EPA SAFER database) of key wetland process parameters and operational mechanisms, a final project report, three peer reviewed publications and a conference presentation. In addition, a post-project dissemination workshop will take place involving interested parties from bodies such as the EPA, BRAVO – Critical Raw Materials, and the research community. The project will also enable research capacity building where outputs are expected to contribute to proposal submission for upscaling and translating into demonstration pilots with industry partners, e.g. ERA-MIN submission. |
| EPA Scientific Officer | LisaJohnson |