Proposed Environmental Risk Management Elements in a Carpathian Valley Basin, within the Roşia Montană European Historical Mining Area

Long-term mining activities in the Roșia Montană European Historical Mining Area have significantly degraded environmental quality, creating chronic pollution that adversely affects local ecosystems. A study identifies two distinct management zones: an upper reference area and a lower zone requiring remedial actions to mitigate historical pollution and prevent future ecological accidents, particularly concerning proposed infrastructure like a decyanidation dam and lake. The research highlights the severe impact on fish and benthic macroinvertebrates, with the Corna River exhibiting varying ecological statuses due to mining-induced stress. Technical solutions are proposed to address these challenges and improve environmental conditions in this historically impacted Carpathian valley basin.

Bănăduc, D., Curtean-Bănăduc, A., Cianfaglione, K., Akeroyd, J., & Cioca, L.-I. (2021). Proposed Environmental Risk Management Elements in a Carpathian Valley Basin, within the Roşia Montană European Historical Mining Area. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(9), 4565. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18094565