Ecology and environmental care have become integral parts of daily life, especially for the younger generation. As a result, more industries are seeking innovative ways to operate sustainably, reducing their environmental impact to a minimum. Among these sectors, mining, traditionally seen as a major polluter, is embracing green transformation by adopting modern technologies and practices that promote environmentally friendly operations. This has led to the emergence of “green mines”.
At first glance, the concept of a “green mine” may seem contradictory—how can a place where natural resources are extracted also be associated with environmental protection? The answer lies in the principles of sustainable mining, where innovation merges efficiency with ecological responsibility.
Imagine a mine that not only avoids harming the ecosystem but actively works to restore it—through reforestation and the use of renewable energy sources. What was once unthinkable is now increasingly becoming a reality. Around the world, mining companies are adhering to stricter environmental standards and are committed to reducing harmful emissions and preserving natural resources.
Mining is no longer just about resource extraction; the focus is now on giving back to nature through reclamation, recycling, and waste reduction processes. Green mines have evolved from a futuristic idea into a necessary reality.
An exemplary model of this transformation is the Čukaru Peki mine, recognized as the region’s first “green mine.” This mining complex demonstrates how advanced technologies can significantly reduce environmental impact. At Čukaru Peki, ore extraction follows high environmental standards, with every phase of the process designed to minimize harm to nature.
A notable feature of the mine is the backfill paste technology, which repurposes waste material generated during mining to fill excavated chambers. This reduces the need for additional landfills. Additionally, the mine’s recultivation efforts transform the area into a green space resembling a garden or park, a practice implemented by Serbia Zijin Mining, the company that owns Čukaru Peki.
The mine also operates a plant that recycles technical water, enabling its circular use within the production system. The company takes care to protect flora and fauna, preserving natural habitats in the region. This year alone, tens of thousands of trees, shrubs, and flowering plants were planted, and over 200,000 square meters of land were covered with hand-sown lawns. The result is a striking, environmentally friendly mining complex.
Čukaru Peki is more than just a mining operation; it represents the beginning of an era where ecology and mining go hand in hand. With over 1,300 employees dedicated to its green mission, the mine has become a symbol of how the mining industry can drive both ecological responsibility and development. The success of Čukaru Peki demonstrates that environmental care in mining is not just possible—it’s a new standard.
