Page 361 - Solid Waste Analysis and Minimization a Systems Approach

CASE STUDY 339

landfills, such as recycling and compost programs. The pace of growth in the global
economy and demand for resources suggests that raw materials will remain the pri-
mary source of mineral and metal commodities. Recycled materials, however, have
become an increasingly important source. Minerals and metals provide a unique envi-
ronmental advantage. Because of their value, consistent performance characteristics,
durability, chemical properties, and wide-range of uses, many minerals and metals can
be recycled again and again. As a result, recycled materials have become a critical
source of supply, and are now traded on national and global markets.
A progressive metal recycling policy and strategy can make a tangible contribution
to an organization’s innovation strategy by

■ Positioning the organization as a leader in sustainable natural resource development
■ Positioning the organization as a global recycling leader
■ Fostering the transition from commodity suppliers to suppliers of innovative prod-
ucts and services that support recycling
■ Encouraging life cycle product design
■ Fostering public understanding and awareness of the benefits of recycling

23.6 Case Study

In response to concerns about abandoned nonmetallic mining sites, the state of
Wisconsin passed legislation in 2000. Through this law, the legislature directed the
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources to write a reclamation rule that could be
used to implement uniform statewide mine reclamation standards. The purpose of
legislation is to establish county and municipal reclamation programs through the
enactment of an applicable ordinance as a means of ensuring that uniform reclamation
standards are applied consistently throughout the state. In this way, it provides assur-
ance that a stable and productive postmining condition will be achieved at all active
nonmetallic mines in the state of Wisconsin.
This new rule made it mandatory for counties to enact ordinances by June 1, 2001
for the purpose of establishing and administering programs to address the reclamation
of nonmetallic mining sites. Figures 23.1 and 23.2 show before and after photographs
of a reclaimed metallic mine, respectively. Although mandatory for counties, the rule
allows the option of enacting an ordinance establishing a reclamation program for
cities, villages, and towns. In general, a new or reopened mining site will follow these
steps in developing a reclamation plan:

■ The applicant will need to obtain the information necessary to complete the appli-
cation, addressing the specific requirements that may arise while the mine recla-
mation plan is being drafted.
■ In order to develop a mine reclamation plan an applicant must first decide upon and
propose a target postmining land use(s). It may be beneficial to discuss the pro-
posed land use(s) with the state.