Erasmus, J & Coetzer, N 2026, 'SMART closure objectives and criteria: a benchmark recipe for success', in AB Fourie, G Boggs, J Heyes & M Tibbett (eds), Mine Closure 2026: Proceedings of the 19th International Conference on Mine Closure, Australian Centre for Geomechanics, Perth, pp. 1-9, https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/2615_119
(https://papers.acg.uwa.edu.au/p/2615_119_Coetzer/)
Abstract: Mine closure planning and execution should follow a cradle-to-cradle approach, with closure considerations embedded in mine planning processes from the outset. This integration must address physical, biophysical and social dimensions to ensure defensible closure outcomes and sustainable post-mining land uses. Industry frameworks such as the International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM) Good Practice Guideline and International Finance Corporation (IFC) Standards provide the foundation for integrated mine closure planning and support the development of site-specific closure objectives and criteria.
Well‑defined closure objectives and criteria – guided by SMART principles (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and timely) and informed by operational experience, technical studies and field trials – are central to estimating closure liabilities accurately and ensuring appropriate financial provisioning. These elements form the basis of a dynamic integrated mine closure plan that enables responsible relinquishment and supports long‑term environmental and socio‑economic resilience. Establishing these elements provides a robust basis for a dynamic integrated mine closure plan that enables responsible relinquishment and supports a sustainable environmental and socio‑economic legacy at the life of mine and beyond.
Building on industry best practices and real-world application, this paper highlights the pathway to successful closure through the development of risk-based success and closure criteria aligned with clearly defined closure objectives. Results from various African mining operations’ case studies demonstrate how multidisciplinary teams refine these criteria over time using tools such as benchmarking, closure risk assessments, rehabilitation trials, closure criteria effectiveness reviews and gap analyses. This iterative, evidence-based approach ensures that closure strategies (physical, biophysical and social) remain realistic, feasible and responsive to evolving site conditions throughout the operational mining life cycle, which ultimately ensures the most realistic closure liabilities.