Evaluation of Strategies for the Sustainable Transformation of Surface Coal Mines Using a Combined SWOT–AHP Methodology

Abstract

The sustainable transformation of surface coal mines aims to recover geoenvironmental and socioeconomic factors (ecosystems, landscape, soil, water, employment, etc.) related to extractive operations. The transition to sustainability starts when a mine enters the ageing/closing phase and includes large-scale technical activities for repurposing the mined sites. Moreover, circular economy practices and methods are introduced for efficient and socio-environmentally friendly use of mining wastes and non-exploited resources. The selection of a strategy for the sustainable transformation of a mine constitutes a complex decision-making framework presenting various practical problems. This paper provides a critical analysis concerning the definition of the transformation problems and suggests a decision-making methodology for the selection of a strategy for sustainability with a case study of a closing surface lignite mine in Greece. The methodology combines (a) a strengths–weaknesses–opportunities–threats (SWOT) analysis of the factors of critical importance for the evaluation of alternative strategies, and (b) the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) applied for the quantification and use of these factors for the selection of the most advantageous strategy. In this context, it is based on expert judgement. The results indicate that the proposed analysis can be used as a practical decision-making tool to resolve complex problems related to the mine closure and post-mining issues.