In the heart of South Kalimantan, Indonesia, a significant study is reshaping how we think about post-mining land management and water resources. Dr. Didik Triwibowo, from the Doctoral Program of Environmental Science at Lambung Mangkurat University, has led groundbreaking research that could influence the future of sustainable mining practices and energy sector operations.
Open-pit coal mining leaves behind a transformed landscape, often characterized by degraded overburden dumps and pit lakes. These post-mining landforms require careful management to support sustainable land use. Triwibowo’s study, published in the *Journal of Degraded and Mining Lands Management* (translated as *Journal of Degraded and Mining Lands Management*), focuses on the hydrological modeling of a reclaimed catchment area and pit lake, providing valuable insights for the energy sector.
The research evaluates the hydrological capacity of a reclaimed area serving as the catchment for the Paringin pit lake. By applying two hydrological models—the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) and the F.J. Mock model—Triwibowo and his team successfully simulated monthly inflow, demonstrating good agreement with field observations. This integrated approach combines remote sensing, GIS-based spatial analysis, and field-based observations, including meteorological data, real-time inflow monitoring using aerial sensors, and Total Suspended Solids (TSS) measurement.
“Understanding the hydrological dynamics of reclaimed catchment areas is crucial for sustainable post-mining land management,” Triwibowo explains. “Our study shows that with a catchment-to-lake area ratio of 6.4:1, sustainable inflow volumes ranging from 0.078 to 0.103 m³/s can be achieved throughout the year, even under a tropical climate with over 3,000 mm of annual rainfall and evaporation exceeding 1,000 mm.”
The research also highlights the importance of monitoring water quality. Although the estimated erosion rate of 3.51 t/ha/year remains within acceptable limits, the average TSS levels (89.13 mg/L) exceeded the regulatory threshold of 50 mg/L for raw water supply and aquaculture use. This finding underscores the need for ongoing water quality management in post-mining landscapes.
The implications for the energy sector are significant. Effective hydrological modeling and management of reclaimed catchment areas can support sustainable water resources, which are vital for mining operations and surrounding communities. As the energy sector increasingly focuses on sustainability and environmental stewardship, this research provides a valuable tool for planning and managing post-mining landforms.
Triwibowo’s work contributes to the growing need for hydrological connectivity assessment in post-mining landscapes. By affirming the effectiveness of the NRECA and F.J. Mock models in supporting post-mining water management, this study paves the way for improved planning and sustainable management of pit lakes as integrated components of degraded post-mining land.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, the insights from this research will be instrumental in shaping future developments. By embracing sustainable practices and leveraging advanced hydrological modeling, the industry can ensure the long-term viability of mining operations while minimizing environmental impact.
In a world where sustainable practices are increasingly paramount, Triwibowo’s research offers a beacon of hope and a roadmap for the future. As the energy sector navigates the complexities of post-mining land management, this study provides a crucial foundation for informed decision-making and sustainable development.