The socio-economic and environmental consequences of abandoned coal mines in Jackaroo Park, eMalahleni Municipality, Mpumalanga Province in South Africa

Abstract

The abandonment of coal mines in Jackaroo Park, eMalahleni Municipality, Mpumalanga Province, South Africa, has led to severe socio-economic and environmental challenges. However, there remains a paucity in scientific understanding of the extent of the impacts with a view to inform the development of effective remediation strategies and policy measures to alleviate the ongoing adverse effects of abandoned mines and promote sustainable development of surrounding communities. This study examines the socio-economic and environmental consequences of abandoned coal mines in Jackaroo Park. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, incorporating qualitative data from document analysis and interviews with community members, local leaders, and policymakers, as well as quantitative data from assessment of water parameters and environmental observations. The results reveal severe social, economic and environmental impacts including soil and water contamination, loss of biodiversity, and air quality deterioration, decrease in employment and investment opportunities, increase in criminal activities, decrease in the value of the houses, and disrupting traditional ways of living and, loss of cultural heritage. Moreover, the research observed that the current government policies and rehabilitation efforts are not effectively addressing the social, economic and environmental challenges being experienced in Jackaroo Park. The major policy and action gaps include lack of rehabilitation and closure, lack of comprehensive data and monitoring and the proliferation of illegal mining activities, among others. The study emphasizes the importance of community involvement and stakeholder collaboration in mitigating the adverse impacts of abandoned coal mines and promoting sustainable development in mining regions. The study contributes to the broader discourse on the environmental and socio-economic sustainability of post-mining landscapes, offering valuable insights for policymakers, environmentalists, and community advocates seeking to address the legacy of coal mining in South Africa and beyond.