The Problem: Mine waste is broken or milled rocks.  Hence a much larger surface area is available as in the ore body for microbes to colonize. Acidophilic microbes oxidize (weathering) minerals and release metals some of them essential for living organisms, but others are toxic, with variation in concentrations. Unfortunately, weathering is a natural process and hence represents a serious long-term problem and liability for the mining industry. The search for a sustainable solution is still awaiting.    

The Solution:  In 1962 the American ecologist Howard T. Odum coined the phrase ‘Ecological Engineering’ to describe his idea that natural systems could and should be managed to support humanity. He suggested that by understanding the intricate workings of a natural system, it would be possible to manipulate it, adding small amounts of energy at the right time and place, to achieve large benefits. In brief, Ecological Engineering embraces the design, construction, and management of sustainable ecosystems for the benefit of both humanity and the environment. A novel approach to looking at evolutionary processes is presented in the book: Ecological  Engineering: An Introduction to Ecotechnology released in 1989 by the authors W.J. Mitsch & S.E. Jorgenson. Simply put; work with ecology/nature and not after the mantra of the engineering fraternity aiming to control nature.  Using the outlined forcing functions (hindrances)  in the book mine wastes and their contaminated drainages can be greatly improved and even assist in forming future ore bodies.