Chapter 13 Hazards associated with mining and mineral exploitation in Cornwall and Devon, SW England

Cornwall and West Devon, the largest UNESCO World Heritage Site in the UK, present unique mining hazards due to its extensive metalliferous mining history spanning over 2000 years. The study identifies key risks linked to the region's distinctive geology, including steeply dipping mineral veins, deep and complex mine structures, and contamination from ore-processing by-products, particularly arsenic. Additionally, kaolin mining introduces hazards related to waste management and stable spoil tip maintenance. This research highlights the need for advanced heritage preservation techniques and remediation strategies to address these long-standing challenges, positioning Cornwall and Devon as leaders in mining hazard treatment.

Gamble, B., Anderson, M., & Griffiths, J. S. (2020). Chapter 13 Hazards associated with mining and mineral exploitation in Cornwall and Devon, SW England. Geological Society, London, Engineering Geology Special Publications, 29(1), 321–367. https://doi.org/10.1144/egsp29.13