When mine closure lacks dollars and sense: common pitfalls and practical solutions in mine closure planning

Authors: Hood, A; Dillon, T; Crossley, C Download Paper Open access courtesy of:

DOI https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/2515_57

Cite As:
Hood, A, Dillon, T & Crossley, C 2025, 'When mine closure lacks dollars and sense: common pitfalls and practical solutions in mine closure planning', in S Knutsson, AB Fourie & M Tibbett (eds), Mine Closure 2025: Proceedings of the 18th International Conference on Mine Closure, Australian Centre for Geomechanics, Perth, pp. 1-11, https://doi.org/10.36487/ACG_repo/2515_57



Abstract:
Mine closure presents complex, multidimensional challenges that are frequently underestimated, resulting in substantial financial, operational and environmental liabilities. These challenges are particularly acute in remote environments, where logistical limitations and environmental constraints significantly amplify cost overruns and planning oversights. This paper critically examines four common interrelated pitfalls recurrently observed in mine closure planning: (1) unverified closure assumptions, such as the overlooked necessity of stockpiling appropriate rock materials; (2) missed cost efficiencies and ineffective interim solutions, exemplified by failing to strategically leverage existing onsite equipment or adequately plan material handling; (3) inadequate baseline data collection and misinterpretation, such as disregarding early geochemical indicators leading to costly remediation; and (4) impractical or overly conservative closure designs, including specifications for cover materials that cannot be realistically achieved with available site equipment. Drawing upon practical case studies from mines across North America, this paper illustrates how neglecting basic operational details – right down to deciding ‘where all the doorknobs go’ – can escalate into expensive, avoidable complications. We advocate for a backward-planning methodology that begins by clearly defining the desired end state and subsequently aligning available resources, operational practice and realistic environmental criteria to achieve meaningful closure outcomes that align with closure objectives. This approach facilitates early verification of critical assumptions, improves cross-departmental communication and aims for closure designs to remain practically achievable without resorting to costly external interventions. Ultimately, the paper emphasises the importance of transforming mine closure from a theoretical, top-down checklist into an adaptive, iterative, and resource-conscious process so closure strategies are both environmentally and financially responsible.

Keywords: mine closure, remote environments, cost escalation, onsite equipment, closure planning, resource management, environmental safety

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