The impact of acid mine drainage on the ecology of the Cradle of Humankind and Krugersdorp Game Reserve on the West Rand

Acid mine drainage from abandoned gold mines in the Witwatersrand Supergroup is significantly degrading the ecology of the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site and Krugersdorp Game Reserve. The study reveals that water flowing from these mines, once clean dolomitic water, now contains high concentrations of sulphuric acid, sulphate salts, and metals, including radioactive heavy metals, due to the oxidation of iron pyrite (FeS2) in the geological layers. This process, exacerbated by the flooding of mine voids after decades of dewatering, poses a severe threat to local ecosystems. The research highlights the long-term environmental impact of deep gold mining on water quality and biodiversity.

Durand, F. (2016). The impact of acid mine drainage on the ecology of the Cradle of Humankind and Krugersdorp Game Reserve on the West Rand. Suid-Afrikaanse Tydskrif Vir Natuurwetenskap En Tegnologie, 35(1). https://doi.org/10.4102/satnt.v35i1.1367