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Iron mud revolution: Lausitz discovers new soil treasure!
In Oberspreewald-Lausitz, iron sludge is being examined in order to improve Brandenburg soils. Research results expected in two years.
Iron mud revolution: Lausitz discovers new soil treasure!
A lot is happening in Lusatia in the area of water and soil renaturation. Diligent work is being done to improve the landscape conditions damaged by lignite mining. A few days ago, the desilting of the Wudritz, an important tributary to the Spree, began. Up to 24,000 cubic meters of sewage sludge contaminated with iron hydroxide are excavated here. This is part of the 20-point immediate catalog of the Lusatian and Central German Mining Management Company (LMBV), which aims to clean the Spree. The excavators are scheduled to remove silt from a twelve-kilometer section by mid-June. It is hoped that these measures will not only reduce iron pollution in the Spree, but also regain a healthy habitat in the region. [Tagesspiegel] reports on the ongoing projects that are seen as necessary steps to combat the long-term ecological consequences of coal mining.
What exactly is this iron sludge that is being discussed here? It occurs after groundwater rises following the end of an open-cast mine, causing iron hydroxide to be deposited as sludge. A research team is now investigating whether this mud can be used to improve sandy soils in Brandenburg. In a test area near Lauchhammer, alfalfa plants are being tested on different soils that are mixed with the iron sludge. The researchers hope that this mud, once dried and sieved, can provide valuable nutrients for agriculture. Around 60,000 tonnes of iron sludge are produced every year, of which it is estimated that only 10,000 tonnes can actually be used. [RBB24] provides information about the special properties of the mud, which could potentially significantly improve soil quality.
Plants and soils in focus
The planting trials show promising approaches. By measuring and weighing the plants, we examine how well they thrive in soils with and without the iron sludge. A laboratory beneath the test beds collects the water that seeps through the measuring cylinders to provide an accurate overview of soil moisture. Notably, the sludges are able to store rainwater, which can promote soil quality. But not every mud sample is welcome, as some may contain heavy metals that are potentially hazardous to health.
Heavy metals in garden soil are a serious issue that should not be underestimated. They can enter the soil through natural weathering processes, industrial waste or sewage sludge and accumulate there. The list of problematic metals ranges from lead to cadmium to mercury. These substances can cause long-term health damage, which is why a thorough analysis is often advisable. [Soil Specialist Center] emphasizes that acidic soils (with a pH value below 7) in particular pose a higher risk.
Looking into the future
The researchers are optimistic, but expect to be able to present the first reliable results of their studies in two years. It remains to be seen what the long-term impact of these approaches will be on soil and water quality as well as adjacent ecosystems. It is clear that the use of iron sludge must continue to be viewed with caution, particularly in view of the dangers posed by heavy metals.
Overall, the cleaning process of the Spree and the possible use of the iron sludge are important steps on the long path to a regenerated landscape. It is hoped that these initiatives will not only clean the environment in Lusatia, but also improve it.