THE IMPACT OF MINING ON WATER RESOURCES: A COMPILATION OF TURKISH AND EUROPEAN EXAMPLES

Abstract

This study is a comprehensive review examining the impacts of quarrying and mining activities on water resources between 1980 and 2026, within the framework of Turkish and European literature. The main objective of the study is to reveal the physical, chemical, and hydrological effects of mining activities on surface and groundwater systems and to evaluate these effects, particularly in the Black Sea Region. Literature findings indicate that mining activities lead to significant deterioration in water quality, particularly through processes such as heavy metal (arsenic, lead, cadmium) accumulation, acid mine drainage, and increased sediment load, negatively impacting aquatic ecosystems. Furthermore, open-pit and quarrying operations have been found to cause a decrease in groundwater levels, disruption of aquifer structure, and alteration of natural drainage systems. European literature emphasizes that these effects persist even in the long term, and abandoned mine sites can create permanent water pollution; however, significant shortcomings are observed in monitoring and managing these processes in Turkey. The Black Sea Region, with its high rainfall regime, steep topography, and dense river network, is extremely sensitive to the impacts of mining activities. The rapid surface runoff and short basin systems in the region cause pollutants to be transported quickly over large areas, increasing the spatial spread of negative impacts on water quality. Furthermore, the region's high biodiversity and ecosystem integrity make the ecological consequences of mining-related degradation even more critical. A comparative analysis of Turkey and Europe reveals that environmental monitoring mechanisms are more effective in Europe, rehabilitation processes are mandatory, and water quality monitoring systems are more advanced. In contrast, despite the existence of legislation in Turkey, shortcomings in implementation and monitoring processes are noticeable. This situation appears to be causing irreversible losses in ecological balance and groundwater. In conclusion, the impacts of mining activities on water resources are multifaceted and often irreversible. These impacts are particularly pronounced in hydrologically sensitive areas such as the Black Sea Region. In this context, developing sustainable mining practices, adopting basin-based planning, establishing continuous water quality monitoring systems, and effectively implementing rehabilitation processes are of great importance.