Application of satellite remote sensing in mining industry

The study used geospatial indices, including the Normalized Differential Vegetation Index (NDVI), the Global Environmental Monitoring Index (GEMI) and the Normalized Differential Water Index (NDWI), to distinguish between different types of land cover. The images are classified by using the maximum likelihood method, a statistical method that estimates the parameters of a hypothetical probability distribution based on observed data, as well as supervised classification.

The results show that these indices are reliable for mapping and monitoring land use change and cover mining-related changes. Extremely accurate, up to 96%. Mapping land and use changes using satellite remote sensing and geospatial indices will help monitor the impact of mining on natural ecosystems and urban/residential areas.

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Why is it important to map land and cover changes in the mining industry?

While mining is one of humanity's most important commercial activities, it has a huge problem: Global mining activities cause serious ecological damage. Carbon emissions, pollution, and land clearing of vital ecosystems are all harmful consequences of continued resource extraction. Arable land and vegetation cover are affected by open pit mining. Communities living near mining operations are affected both directly and indirectly.

Mapping land and cover changes resulting from mining operations facilitates planning, rehabilitation and mine closure. The data collected through monitoring efforts helps inform the future of the mining industry, identify any issues, and protect vulnerable ecosystems and communities.

Monitoring and mapping vegetation coverage is critical at all stages of the mine development and operation cycle. Vegetation maps help to assess the biodiversity of the area and, therefore, are often required during the planning stage of a mine. They help inform the best placement of mine structures, and information can establish a baseline for environmental damage. Changes in vegetation cover during operation indicate pollutant levels. After closing, it helps inform recovery progress and identify remaining contamination.

Mining activities have also changed the landscape, not only due to the mines themselves or pollution, but also due to infrastructure and the transport of materials by heavy machinery. This can cause significant physical changes in the surrounding geography in a short period of time. Can lead to erosion, land slides and disturbances in natural flood control systems, affecting a wider geographical area.

Remote sensing can also be used to monitor vegetation stress. Stresses include shortages or surpluses of water, insects, particulate and heavy metal pollution, acid rain and mineral deficiencies. Vegetation stress results in stunted growth, leaf pigmentation and changes in plant structure, plant death, and changes in vegetation types to more tolerant species.

Monitoring and mapping of land and surface changes directly or indirectly caused by mining activities is essential to limit the damage caused. Remote sensing plays a crucial role in these efforts.