Crisis Management Days

From remediation to function: Can surface mines become a resource in crisis management?

Anamarija Grbeš Babić

Sveučilište u Zagrebu, Rudarsko-geološko-naftni fakultet

Branimir Farkaš

Sveučilište u Zagrebu Rudarsko-geološko-naftni fakultet

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2377-9446

Helena Vučenović

Sveučilište u Zagrebu Rudarsko-geološko-naftni fakultet

https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6512-0669

Keywords: surface mining, land reclamation, spatial planning, community resilience, crisis management

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Abstract

Global economic activity depends on natural resources, and the demand for mineral raw materials continues to shape the use of space. As a result, extraction activities, including surface mining and quarrying, generate engineered landforms that remain as long-term spatial features after exploitation. Although in the Croatian context these sites are typically smaller in scale, they still represent spatially defined and technically shaped environments subject to planning and remediation requirements. Due to their smaller scale, they may also offer greater flexibility for adaptation and targeted functional use. In current practice, their post-extraction use is most often limited to stabilization and biological reclamation, resulting in technically compliant but functionally underutilized spaces. This paper explores the potential of reinterpreting surface mining sites as spatial resources with extended functional value, particularly in the context of crisis management and strengthening community resilience. The study applies a conceptual and analytical approach based on the review of the Croatian regulatory and spatial planning framework, analysis of current remediation practices, and comparison of proactive and reactive approaches to post-mining land use. The analysis indicates that such sites have significant potential for multi-purpose use, including water management, logistics and support functions. Integrating future land use into the mine design phase can improve long-term outcomes, while existing sites offer opportunities for adaptation to current community needs. Surface mines can therefore be understood as spatial assets contributing to resilience rather than solely as sites for closure, requiring closer integration of mining, spatial planning and risk management.