In the heart of China’s energy sector, a pressing challenge has emerged from the very ground beneath: coal mining subsidence areas. These vast, often barren landscapes, a byproduct of coal extraction, pose significant hurdles to ecological sustainability and economic development. However, a recent study published in *Meitian dizhi yu kantan* (Modern Geotechnical Engineering) offers a comprehensive roadmap for transforming these areas into productive, sustainable spaces, with significant implications for the energy sector.
Led by Zhuanghan Meng of CCTEG Ecological Environment Technology Co., Ltd. in Beijing, the research addresses the critical need for effective management, restoration, and development of coal mining subsidence areas. These areas, scattered across China, present unique challenges depending on their geographical and environmental contexts. Meng and his team have developed a dual-level zoning system that classifies these areas into six distinct functional zones, each requiring tailored technological approaches.
For instance, in plains where cultivated land has been destroyed, the study highlights advances in filling material optimization and scientific soil reconstruction. “The integration of proactive restoration strategies has shown promising results in restoring the productivity of these lands,” Meng notes. This is not just an environmental win; it’s a commercial opportunity. Restored lands can be reintegrated into agricultural or industrial use, creating new revenue streams and reducing the ecological footprint of mining operations.
In more extreme environments, such as alpine forest lands and grasslands, the study emphasizes the importance of selecting hardy plant species and constructing matching soil matrices. “The challenge lies in creating resilient ecosystems that can thrive in these harsh conditions,” Meng explains. Successful ecological restoration in these areas can enhance biodiversity, improve water quality, and even support ecotourism, offering diverse economic benefits.
The study also explores the potential of wetland construction in areas with high phreatic surfaces. By adopting novel wetland agriculture and artificial water resource management, these areas can be transformed into valuable ecological and economic assets. “Wetland development not only reconstructs hydrological systems but also enhances the ecological value of these lands,” Meng says. This can support industries like aquaculture and renewable energy, providing a sustainable economic boost.
Renewable energy development is a key focus of the study, particularly in desert regions. The research highlights the potential for renewable energy bases in these areas, combining energy production with ecological restoration. “The integration of renewable energy development and ecological effect assessment can support the construction of energy bases in deserts and wastelands,” Meng explains. This dual-purpose approach can enhance energy security while promoting sustainable land use.
In urban areas, the study outlines a whole-process technology chain for safe construction and utilization of subsidence areas. This includes fine-scale exploration, targeted management, and collaborative monitoring. “Ensuring the safe construction of aboveground and ground engineering is crucial for urban development,” Meng notes. This can facilitate urban expansion and infrastructure development, providing economic and social benefits.
The research also delves into the potential of underground space development and utilization. By exploring multi-dimensional development paths for abandoned mines, these spaces can be repurposed for various uses, from storage to underground agriculture. “The function transformation potential of abandoned mines is vast,” Meng says. This can create new economic opportunities and reduce the environmental impact of mining activities.
Looking ahead, the study envisions trends in the management, restoration, development, and utilization of coal mining subsidence areas. These include advancements in intelligence levels, digital transformation, and the economic development of carbon sinks. The research also proposes subsequent research directions, such as the resource utilization of Yellow River sediments and the precise configuration of communities in alpine mining areas.
The implications of this research are far-reaching for the energy sector. By transforming coal mining subsidence areas into productive, sustainable spaces, the energy industry can reduce its environmental impact while creating new economic opportunities. This aligns with China’s goals of ecological civilization and sustainable development, offering a blueprint for the future of mining and energy production.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, the insights from this study will be invaluable. By embracing these technological advances and strategic approaches, the industry can pave the way for a more sustainable and prosperous future. The research published in *Meitian dizhi yu kantan* (Modern Geotechnical Engineering) serves as a guiding light, illuminating the path forward for the energy sector in China and beyond.