In the heart of China’s industrial landscape, a pressing challenge has emerged: the vast areas of land affected by coal mining subsidence. These zones, 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 Science and Engineering) offers a beacon of hope, outlining key technologies that could transform these areas into valuable assets for the energy sector and beyond.
Led by Zhuanghan Meng of the CCTEG Ecological Environment Technology Co., Ltd. in Beijing, the research delves into the complexities of managing and restoring these subsidence areas. Meng and his team have developed a dual-level zoning system that categorizes these areas into six distinct functional zones, each with its own set of technological advancements and challenges.
For instance, in the plains where cultivated land has been destroyed, the team has integrated filling material optimization, soil reconstruction technology, and proactive restoration strategies. “The goal is to restore the productivity of these lands, turning them back into viable agricultural areas,” Meng explains. This not only aids in food security but also opens up new avenues for commercial agricultural ventures.
In the more extreme environments of alpine forest lands and grasslands, the focus shifts to ecological conservation. The researchers have combined the selection of hardy plants, soil matrix construction, and artificial vegetation rehabilitation to tackle the unique challenges posed by these areas. “We’re not just restoring the land; we’re creating resilient ecosystems that can withstand harsh conditions,” Meng notes.
The study also highlights the potential for renewable energy development in desert areas. By exploring renewable energy construction, ecological effect assessment, and energy consumption strategies, the researchers aim to support the development of energy bases in deserts, Gobi regions, and wastelands. This could significantly boost the renewable energy sector, providing new sources of clean energy and economic opportunities.
Urban construction and underground space development are also addressed. The team has utilized a whole-process technology chain to ensure the safe construction of both aboveground and underground engineering projects. This includes fine-scale exploration, targeted management, deformation-resistant structures, and multi-approach collaborative monitoring.
Looking ahead, Meng envisions a future where intelligence, digital transformation, and carbon sink economics play a crucial role in the management and utilization of these areas. He suggests that future research should focus on the resource utilization of Yellow River sediments, the precise configuration of communities in alpine mining areas, and the economic value assessment of wetland carbon sinks.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. By transforming coal mining subsidence areas into productive lands, renewable energy bases, and safe urban spaces, the study paves the way for sustainable development and economic growth. As Meng puts it, “We’re not just addressing a challenge; we’re unlocking new opportunities for the future.”
This groundbreaking research, published in *Meitian dizhi yu kantan* (Modern Geotechnical Science and Engineering), serves as a roadmap for the sustainable development of mining cities in China and beyond. It offers a glimpse into a future where technology and innovation converge to create a harmonious balance between industrial progress and ecological preservation.