Course Introduction

Metal Mining Discharges - Impacts and Controls

Version: 14 May 2007

Dr. Fran Solomon

Start the Course with an Orientation Session	Start the Course at the First Working Session	Course Certification Entry or Registration
(first time viewers)	(serious viewers)	(certification)

Introduction

This course was formerly titled "Impacts of Metals on Aquatic Ecosystems and Human Health".

In order to understand the impacts of metals on aquatic ecosystems, it is first important to understand the principles of ecology, what is an aquatic ecosystem, and how metals from all stages in the life of a mine are discharged to these ecosystems. The author then examines the properties of metals and how they enter these ecosystems from mining and other human activities.

The author presents the properties and uses of specific metals that are mined, or byproducts of mining, in Canada and other countries, and the toxic effects of these metals on fish, other aquatic organisms, and humans.

This is followed by an explanation of various toxicity testing methods, their advantages and disadvantages, and how to prevent and control the generation and discharge of acid rock drainage ARD.

The case studies include mine histories, the toxic metals and/or cyanide that are or were generated and discharged to the aquatic environment, actions taken to prevent and control discharge of these pollutants, and the results of the source control actions.

Content

The course comprises 19 viewing sessions, each of approximately 60 minutes duration, plus supporting figures, tables, worked examples, references and appendices, and interactive reviews that confirm your achievement of the learning objectives. The total duration of the course is estimated at 20 hours.

Learning Outcomes

Participants who successfully complete this course and the certification requirements will be able to perform the following.

• Understand the principles of ecology and aquatic ecosystems and how various metals from mining interact.

• Appreciate the toxic effects of these metals on fish, other aquatic organisms, and humans.

• Understand the available toxicity testing methods and their advantages and disadvantages.

• Apply various methods and techniques to prevention, control and treatment of metals and acid rock drainage.

Course Requirements

Basic requirements for successful completion of this course include the following.

• A degree or diploma in environmental engineering, chemistry or mining-related program.

• Experience of the environment aspects and concerns of mining.

Course Certification

This course qualifies for EduMine Certification. A certificate will be issued to an EduMine enrollee who registers for certification and successfully completes the certification requirements. The total certification fee for this course is Can$235.

2.0 CEUs  (Continuing Education Units) will be awarded for successful completion of certification requirements for this course. EduMine meets the Criteria for Certification established by the Authorized Provider Commission of The International Association for Continuing Education and Training, 1620 Eye Street, N.W., Suite 615, Washington, DC 20006.

To register for certification for this course use the "Course Certification Entry or Registration" link above or below on the right.

UBC Certificate in Mining Studies

This course qualifies as online learning for the University of British Columbia - Certificate in Mining Studies in the Environment, Social Issues, Health & Safety stream. Students who complete the certification requirements for this course may optionally register for the Certificate in Mining Studies program and complete the associated classroom component. For further information click UBC Certificate in Mining Studies

[Note: Participation in the UBC Certificate in Mining Studies program is optional. For EduMine certification proceed as described under Course Certification above.]

Start the Course with an Orientation Session	Start the Course at the First Working Session	Course Certification Entry or Registration
(first time viewers)	(serious viewers)	(certification)