Project

Monitoring of Geoenvironmental Hazards in the post-mining areas (MITIGATE)

Monitoring mine waste dumps in post-mining areas for sustainable development, environmental protection and social security

Monitoring mine waste dumps in post-mining areas is crucial for sustainable development, environmental protection and social security. This project aims to develop an integrated methodology for geomonitoring of mining dumps using remote sensing techniques and verification of the results using mobile GIS. The collaboration between Wroclaw University of Science and Technology (WUST) and Technische Hochschule Georg Agricola (THGA) will strengthen research in geoenvironmental monitoring and methods for predicting the impact of mining on post-mining areas. The methodology involves acquiring data from unmanned aerial systems equipped with multispectral and thermal sensors, integrated with precise GNSS positioning.

Halde Hoheward | Photo: Marcin Pawlik

The results will be visualized using decision support systems in GIS environments. In addition, field verification will be carried out using mobile GIS to collect photographic documentation and also record field measurements from sensors recording soil moisture and temperature. Comprehensive use of integrated geomonitoring methods will make it possible to assess soil erosion and geotechnical stability of post-mining spoil heaps, potential spontaneous combustion, and identify potential sites for future reclamation of mining sites.

The project is to qualify young scientists in the international arena, supporting scientific cooperation and publish joint research results in reputable journals. Through international cooperation, the project will contribute to the progress of mine waste management, promoting sustainable development and ensuring the safety of local communities.

Fotos: FZN / Marcin Pawlik

Project objectives

  • Establishment and consolidation of German-Polish research collaboration, including joint scientific publications
  • Presentation of the results at scientific conferences
  • Qualification and promotion of young scientists through regular meetings, workshops, and seminars
  • Creation of an innovative integrated methodology for environmental geomonitoring of selected types of deterioration facilities to minimize environmental risks

Funded by the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology, and Space (BMFTR) as part of the personal exchange program with Poland 2025 (DAAD).

Project duration

01.01.2026 – 31.12.2027

Contact

Dr.-Ing. Marcin Pawlik

Technische Hochschule Georg Agricola, University
Herner Street 45
44787 Bochum
Building 2, room 106

Mail marcin.pawlik@thga.de

Dr. rer. nat. Bodo Bernsdorf

Technische Hochschule Georg Agricola, University
Herner Street 45
44787 Bochum
Building 2, Room 102

Mail bodo.bernsdorf@thga.de

Dr.-Ing. Benjamin Haske

Technische Hochschule Georg Agricola, University
Herner Street 45
44787 Bochum
Building 2, Room 102

Mail benjamin.haske@thga.de

Hernan Flores, M.Sc.

Technische Hochschule Georg Agricola, University
Herner Street 45
44787 Bochum
Building 2, room 210

Mail hernan.flores@thga.de

Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Tobias Rudolph

Technische Hochschule Georg Agricola, University
Herner Street 45
44787 Bochum
Building 2, Room 101

Mail tobias.rudolph@thga.de