Dr. Priyaji Agung Pambudi, S.Pd., M.Si., a lecturer in the Master of Environmental Science Program at the Graduate School of Universitas Gadjah Mada, conducts research on environmental management in coal mining as a contribution to climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts. Mining activities are known to potentially affect water and soil quality as well as overall ecosystem balance, thereby requiring comprehensive and periodic environmental monitoring. Environmental management in the coal mining sector is a critical aspect of climate change mitigation and ecosystem protection. Research conducted in Riau Province indicates that responsibly managed mining practices can maintain ecological stability while contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
(Activity Documentation)
Monitoring results from six water sampling points—pit, void, household water sources, river, spring, and worker facility areas—show that the concentrations of heavy metals (Cu, Zn, Mn, Pb, Fe, and Cd) remain below national quality standards as regulated in the Decree of the State Minister for the Environment No. 113 of 2003 on Wastewater Quality Standards for Coal Mining Activities. This condition indicates that the potential contamination of surface water and groundwater due to mining activities can be controlled. However, Fe was found to be the parameter closest to the threshold, at 0.796 mg/L compared to the limit of 1 mg/L. Although still within the safe range, this parameter requires close monitoring, particularly during the dry season when natural dilution decreases. Controlled water quality plays a crucial role in supporting SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) by ensuring the availability of safe water for surrounding communities. Moreover, low concentrations of hazardous heavy metals support SDG 14 (Life Below Water) by preventing disruptions to aquatic habitats and maintaining the integrity of aquatic food chains.
Beyond aquatic ecosystems, the study also analyzed soil quality and found increases in certain heavy metal parameters such as Cu and Mn in void areas, worker housing (mess), and riverbanks. However, other parameters including Pb, Cd, and Zn remain within safe thresholds according to international standards from the Environment Protection Authority of Australia, the Environmental Protection Ministry of China, and the United States Environmental Protection Agency. These findings indicate that soil contamination remains controlled and locally concentrated, without spreading to residential areas. This contributes to SDG 15 (Life on Land) by demonstrating that soil quality protection and terrestrial ecosystem functions remain intact, and land degradation can be minimized. Land rehabilitation efforts—such as revegetation using heavy-metal-absorbing plants (phytoremediation)—further strengthen soil quality and restore the ecological functions of post-mining areas.
This issue is particularly important given that many communities surrounding mining sites continue to depend on rivers and natural springs as household water sources. Although groundwater use has increased in recent years, access remains uneven due to economic and technical limitations in constructing deep wells. This situation requires strengthened contributions from mining companies to ensure clean water provision, including the development of communal bore wells, sanitation education, and community engagement in water quality monitoring. These efforts directly advance SDG 6 by promoting universal access to safe and affordable clean water.
Based on this research, one of the most important aspects is the role of reclamation and post-mining activities as part of climate action under SDG 13. Reclamation activities—including land recontouring, revegetation, erosion control, and soil stabilization—directly contribute to:
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Climate change mitigation, through carbon sequestration by vegetation planted in reclaimed areas.
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Microclimate regulation, as increased vegetation cover reduces surface temperatures.
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Enhanced infiltration and water storage capacity, improving resilience to climate variability such as droughts and floods.
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Reduction of indirect emissions, by preventing erosion, sedimentation, and the release of heavy metals that can increase ecological stress.
Thus, reclamation not only restores landscapes but also strengthens environmental resilience to climate change impacts. Integrating reclamation with soil and water conservation establishes post-mining activities as critical instruments for advancing SDG 13 (Climate Action) while ensuring the continuity of both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems (SDG 14 and SDG 15).
Author: Dr. Priyaji Agung Pambudi