IPB University Unveils Innovative Technology to Support Reclamation of Former Mining Sites
In commemoration of Mining and Energy Day and IPB University’s 62nd anniversary, the Center for Mine Reclamation Studies (Reklatam) held a National Seminar and Mine Reclamation Technology Exhibition 2025 (9/9–12) at the IPB International Convention Center, Bogor.
Chairman of the IPB University Reklatam Study Center, Dr Irdika Mansur, revealed that this activity was a form of appreciation for the progress made in the implementation of mine reclamation by mining companies in Indonesia.
“In addition, this event is an effort to disseminate university technology that supports the successful reclamation of former mining sites,” he added.
The seminar also featured an exhibition of research results, innovations, and technologies from IPB University and its partners to support the successful reclamation and utilization of former mining sites in Indonesia.
One of the technologies revealed at this event was the management of acid mine water using an artificial wetland system. This technology is considered more efficient than the expensive active lime method, which relies on human labor. This technology has been legitimized through Minister of Environment and Forestry Regulation No. 5 of 2022.
“Wastewater management is crucial so that former mining ponds can be utilized for fisheries. Therefore, it is necessary to identify types of plants that absorb heavy metals and local organic materials,” said Dr Irdika.
The Expert Staff to the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) for Natural Resource Economics, Dr Lana Saria, said in her speech that the mining sector has a long process that has been regulated from planning to reclamation. She emphasized the importance of public involvement in the formulation of environmental documents and post-mining plans.
“Reclamation is not just an obligation, but must be directed to support food security and restore biodiversity,” said Dr Lana.
The Vice Rector of IPB University for Global Connectivity, Cooperation, and Alumni, Prof Iskandar Z Siregar, added that this activity serves as a medium for the exchange of lessons learned between practitioners and researchers, as well as encouraging the creation of living laboratories and reclamation success indicators that can be adapted to various mining locations.
Meanwhile, Prof Rizaldi Boer, Chief of the IPB University’s International Research Institute for the Environment and Climate Change, reminded the audience of the important role of the mine reclamation sector in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Therefore, he proposed a roadmap towards green mining by 2050.
The IPB University Mining Reclamation Technology Exhibition is a strategic event to strengthen collaboration between academia, government, and industry in realizing sustainable mining in Indonesia.
During the seminar, a cooperation agreement was signed between the IPB University Reklatam Study Center and various strategic partners such as PT Berau Coal, PT Solusi Bangun Indonesia, and PT Sucofindo. (dh) (IAAS/HRD)
