Developing Local, Sustainable and Resilient Solutions for the Challenges in Mining

Authors: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Peter Goerke-Mallet, Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Tobias Rudolph, Research Center of Post-Mining (FZN), Georg Agricola University of Applied Sciences (THGA), Bochum/Germany; Dr. rer. nat. Andreas Müterthies, EFTAS Fernerkundung Technologietransfer GmbH, Münster/Germany
DOI: 10.66356/mrg.2026.05.01.ENDLSRS

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Mining and subsurface storage of resources are essential for securing mineral and energy resources, but their impacts on the environment and local communities can generate conflicts and challenge the social license to operate. This paper presents an approach for developing local, sustainable and resilient solutions based on the systematic integration of geoinformation, remote sensing, scientific monitoring and public participation. The Gronau-Epe cavern facility in Germany serves as a practical case study. A research collaboration involving the municipality, a local citizens’ initiative, science and industry was established to jointly investigate mining-related processes and their impacts on the surface. The study demonstrates how a comprehensive range of geodata can provide a transparent and scientifically sound basis for monitoring and communication. The analysis shows that observed ground movements cannot always be attributed solely to mining activities; natural processes such as soil swelling and shrinkage related to precipitation and drought may also contribute significantly. Distinguishing between these causes is essential for reliable risk assessment and informed public discussion. The experience from Gronau-Epe indicates that open access to relevant geoinformation, participatory monitoring and continuous dialogue among authorities, industry, science and local stakeholders can strengthen mutual understanding, reduce misconceptions and support evidence-based decision-making. Such an approach contributes to resilient management throughout the mining life cycle and can help establish and maintain the social license to operate. The findings underline the importance of geoinformation technologies not only for technical safety and environmental monitoring, but also as a key instrument for transparent communication and public participation in resource management. This paper is based in part on a presentation given at the DMT MiningForum “Raw Materials Momentum” on 18 – 19 June 2026, in Berlin/Germany.