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Geological Engineering and Sustainable Environment

A special issue of Sustainability (ISSN 2071-1050). This special issue belongs to the section "Sustainability in Geographic Science".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 September 2025 | Viewed by 5567

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Francisco Javier Torrijo

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Architecture, Heritage and Management for Sustainable Development Research Centre (PEGASO), Department of Geological and Geotechnical Engineering, Universitat Politècnica de València, Valencia, Spain
Interests: natural hazards; landslides; sustainable geology applications; tunnel design optimization and numerical modelling of geotechnical structures
Prof. Dr. Olegario Alonso-Pandavenes

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Geology and Mining Engineering Faculty (FIGEMPA), Central University of Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
Interests: applied geophysics; landslides; sustainable geology applications; drilling processes; hydrogeology; seismic microzonation and site effects
Dr. Julio Garzón-Roca

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Geodynamics (GEODESPAL), Faculty of Geology, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
Interests: sustainable characterization of geomaterials; landslides induced by extreme events; application of artificial intelligence tools to environmental and geological engineering

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Geological engineering and the sustainable environment converge at a crucial point where technical innovation combines with environmental and social responsibility. Geological engineering focuses on understanding and using geological resources efficiently and safely, while sustainable engineering focuses on developing solutions that meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. In this sense, the integration of both disciplines is essential to address contemporary challenges such as climate change mitigation, water resource management, and resilient infrastructure planning.

Geological engineers play a key role in the assessment of geological hazards, such as landslides, earthquakes, and tsunamis, thus contributing to the safety of multiple communities. They also work to identify and develop renewable energy sources, such as geothermal and hydropower, promoting the transition to a more sustainable future. By integrating environmental conservation practices and clean technologies into their projects, geological engineers can minimize the environmental impact of human activities and contribute to the preservation of natural ecosystems.

In short, collaboration between engineering geology and sustainable engineering is essential to address today's global challenges and build a safer and more equitable future for generations to come.

We look forward to receiving your contributions.

Prof. Dr. Francisco Javier Torrijo
Prof. Dr. Olegario Alonso-Pandavenes
Dr. Julio Garzón-Roca
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Sustainability is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • sustainable engineering
  • geological engineering
  • resilience
  • geomaterials
  • climate change
  • applied AI
  • environmental impact
  • natural hazards

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Published Papers (5 papers)

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Research

24 pages, 4411 KiB  
Article
Characterization of Historical Tailings Dam Materials for Li-Sn Recovery and Potential Use in Silicate Products—A Case Study of the Bielatal Tailings Dam, Eastern Erzgebirge, Saxony, Germany
by Kofi Moro, Nils Hoth, Marco Roscher, Fabian Kaulfuss, Johanes Maria Vianney and Carsten Drebenstedt
Sustainability 2025, 17(10), 4469; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17104469 - 14 May 2025
Viewed by 395
Abstract
The characterization of historical tailings bodies is crucial for optimizing environmental management and resource recovery efforts. This study investigated the Bielatal tailings dam (Altenberg, Germany), examining its internal structure, material distribution influenced by historical flushing technology, and the spatial distribution of valuable elements. [...] Read more.
The characterization of historical tailings bodies is crucial for optimizing environmental management and resource recovery efforts. This study investigated the Bielatal tailings dam (Altenberg, Germany), examining its internal structure, material distribution influenced by historical flushing technology, and the spatial distribution of valuable elements. To evaluate the tailings resource potential, drill core sampling was conducted at multiple points at a depth of 7 m. Subsequent analyses included geochemical characterization using sodium peroxide fusion, lithium borate fusion, X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and a scanning electron microscope with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX). Particle size distribution analysis via a laser particle size analyzer and wet sieving was conducted alongside milieu parameter (pH, Eh, EC) analysis. A theoretical assessment of the tailings’ potential for geopolymer applications was conducted by comparing them with other tailings used in geopolymer research and relevant European standards. The results indicated average concentrations of lithium (Li) of 0.1 wt%, primarily hosted in Li-mica phases, and concentrations of tin (Sn) of 0.12 wt%, predominantly occurring in cassiterite. Particle size analysis revealed that the tailings material is generally fine-grained, comprising approximately 60% silt, 32% fine sand, and 8% clay. These textural characteristics influenced the spatial distribution of elements, with Li and Sn enriched in fine-grained fractions predominantly concentrated in the dam’s central and western sections, while coarser material accumulated near injection points. Historical advancements in mineral processing, particularly flotation, had significantly influenced Sn distribution, with deeper layers showing higher Sn enrichment, except for the final operational years, which also exhibited elevated Sn concentrations. Due to the limitations of X-ray fluorescence (XRF) in detecting Li, a strong correlation between rubidium (Rb) and Li was established, allowing Li quantification via Rb measurements across varying particle sizes, redox conditions, and geological settings. This demonstrated that Rb can serve as a reliable proxy for Li quantification in diverse contexts. Geochemical and mineralogical analyses revealed a composition dominated by quartz, mica, topaz, and alkali feldspars. The weakly acidic to neutral conditions (pH 5.9–7.7) and reducing redox potential (Eh, 570 to 45 mV) of the tailings material indicated a minimal risk of acid mine drainage. Preliminary investigations into using Altenberg tailings as geopolymer materials suggested that their silicon-rich composition could serve as a substitute for coal fly ash in construction; however, pre-treatment would be needed to enhance reactivity. This study underscores the dual potential of tailings for element recovery and sustainable construction, emphasizing the importance of understanding historical processing techniques for informed resource utilization. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geological Engineering and Sustainable Environment)
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19 pages, 5008 KiB  
Article
The Application and Development of Innovative Models in the Sustainable Management of Natural Gully Consolidation and Highland Protection Projects
by Aidi Huo, Peizhe Li, Yilu Zhao, Mohamed EL-Sayed Abuarab, Salah Elsayed and Jinchun Zhang
Sustainability 2025, 17(10), 4329; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17104329 - 10 May 2025
Viewed by 429
Abstract
The Loess Plateau is threatened by severe gully erosion and tableland retreat, primarily driven by uncontrolled surface runoff. Numerical simulations of Gully Consolidation and Highland Protection (GCHP) demonstrate that individual measures such as check dams, terraces, and gully head backfilling can reduce sediment [...] Read more.
The Loess Plateau is threatened by severe gully erosion and tableland retreat, primarily driven by uncontrolled surface runoff. Numerical simulations of Gully Consolidation and Highland Protection (GCHP) demonstrate that individual measures such as check dams, terraces, and gully head backfilling can reduce sediment by 31–35% in the short term, but their effectiveness declines after approximately 10 years. This study classifies GCHP models into four types, progressively integrating drainage, filling, slope protection, and ecological measures. Simulation results confirm that the most comprehensive model—coupling all four types—offers the highest and most sustainable effectiveness in both erosion control and ecological restoration. To address long-term challenges, the study proposes a Sustainable Natural GCHP Management Method, combining cascade interception, guided drainage, and ecological retention, thereby enhancing project resilience and supporting China’s Yellow River Basin ecological protection strategy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geological Engineering and Sustainable Environment)
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20 pages, 6325 KiB  
Article
Sustainable Management of Landslides in Ecuador: Leveraging Geophysical Surveys for Effective Risk Reduction
by Olegario Alonso-Pandavenes, Francisco Javier Torrijo Echarri and Julio Garzón-Roca
Sustainability 2024, 16(24), 10797; https://doi.org/10.3390/su162410797 - 10 Dec 2024
Viewed by 1532
Abstract
The present work explores the use of geophysical surveys as valuable tools for the study and sustainable management of landslides, with a particular focus on Ecuador. As an Andean country, Ecuador’s geomorphology and geology are dominated by volcano-sedimentary materials and processes, which confers [...] Read more.
The present work explores the use of geophysical surveys as valuable tools for the study and sustainable management of landslides, with a particular focus on Ecuador. As an Andean country, Ecuador’s geomorphology and geology are dominated by volcano-sedimentary materials and processes, which confers a high susceptibility to landslides. In the last few years, a number of landslide events (such as those at La Josefina, Alausí, and Chunchi) have given rise to disasters with significant material damage and loss of life. Climatic events, affected by climate change, earthquakes, and human activity, are the main landslide triggers. Geophysical surveys, like seismic refraction, electrical resistivity tomography (ERT), and ground-penetrating radar (GPR), are easy and low-cost techniques that provide valuable and critical subsurface data. They can help define the failure surface, delimit the mobilized materials, describe the internal structure, and identify the hydrological and geotechnical parameters that complement any direct survey (like boreholes and laboratory tests). As a result, they can be used in assessing landslide susceptibility and integrated into early warning systems, mapping, and zoning. Some case examples of large landslide events in Ecuador (historical and recent) are analyzed, showing how geophysical surveys can be a valuable tool to monitor landslides, mitigate their effects, and/or develop solutions. Combined or isolated geophysical techniques foster sustainable management, improve hazard characterization, help protect the most vulnerable regions, promote community awareness for greater safety and resilience against landslides, and support governmental actions and policies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geological Engineering and Sustainable Environment)
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16 pages, 2296 KiB  
Article
Hazard Study of Sludge from Mining Wastewater Treatment Systems (Tailings), Accumulation of Contaminants and Potential Utilization Proposals
by Paúl N. Malacatus, Paulina E. Manobanda and Inmaculada Romero
Sustainability 2024, 16(23), 10569; https://doi.org/10.3390/su162310569 - 2 Dec 2024
Viewed by 1252
Abstract
The increase in gold mining activities has led to a substantial rise in tailings generation, which carry distinct physicochemical and microbiological properties. This study aimed to evaluate the hazardous characteristics of mining tailings using the CRETIB (corrosivity, reactivity, explosiveness, toxicity, ignitability, biological-infectious) methodology. [...] Read more.
The increase in gold mining activities has led to a substantial rise in tailings generation, which carry distinct physicochemical and microbiological properties. This study aimed to evaluate the hazardous characteristics of mining tailings using the CRETIB (corrosivity, reactivity, explosiveness, toxicity, ignitability, biological-infectious) methodology. The research analyzed concentrations of heavy metals including arsenic, cadmium, copper, chromium, lead, mercury, nickel, and zinc, alongside parameters such as pH, cyanide, hydrogen sulfide, and coliform bacteria. Tailings samples were collected from a mine in Ponce Enriquez, Ecuador, at the surface and at a depth of 2 m across three monitoring campaigns. The results indicate that the tailings do not exhibit hazardous characteristics according to CRETIB criteria. While arsenic, chromium, copper, nickel, zinc, and mercury concentrations showed significant differences between the surface and 2 m depth, accumulating at the bottom of the tailings dam by 30–72%, parameters such as pH, cyanide, and hydrogen sulfide were higher at the surface, likely due to volatilization and precipitation effects. Lead did not show significant differences, but also tended to accumulate at depth. These findings suggest that the tailings could be safely utilized in the production of construction materials such as bricks, geopolymer concrete, and fiber cement, promoting circular economy practices and sustainable development in mining. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geological Engineering and Sustainable Environment)
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14 pages, 2634 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Geoenvironment Carrying Capacity in Mineral Resource-Based Cities from the Perspective of Sustainable Development
by Jiawei Liu, Gao Liu, Zhengqi Ma, Fengchuan Chen, Yaodong Wu, Chongji Ge and Xu Wang
Sustainability 2024, 16(18), 7934; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16187934 - 11 Sep 2024
Viewed by 1189
Abstract
The exploitation of natural resources and the degradation of the geological environment pose dual challenges for mineral resource-based cities amidst rapid economic development and urbanization. Evaluating geoenvironmental carrying capacity is essential in measuring the harmony between human activities and the geological environment. Unfortunately, [...] Read more.
The exploitation of natural resources and the degradation of the geological environment pose dual challenges for mineral resource-based cities amidst rapid economic development and urbanization. Evaluating geoenvironmental carrying capacity is essential in measuring the harmony between human activities and the geological environment. Unfortunately, current evaluation methods do not adequately capture the intricate interplay of multiple factors, hindering a comprehensive understanding of this concept in mineral resource cities. To address this gap, this study integrates the DPSR model into the assessment of geoenvironmental carrying capacity, aligning with the characteristics and sustainable development objectives of these cities. By employing catastrophe theory, entropy method, and analytic hierarchy process, a robust evaluation index system specific to mineral resource cities is established. Using Fushun City in Liaoning Province, China, as a case study, the analysis reveals consistently high comprehensive evaluation values over the past five years, reflecting the city’s actual environmental status. The research highlights enhancing the response layer as a key strategy to boost regional geoenvironmental carrying capacity. These results offer valuable insights for the planning of mineral resource cities, fostering regional sustainable development, and promoting geological environmental protection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geological Engineering and Sustainable Environment)
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