As the demand for frac sand increases, so does the need for a safe, eco-friendly green mining process. Achieving quality sand production in a safe and environmentally friendly way is one of the top priorities in the mining industry. Read more about how Pontotoc’s innovative green initiatives reduce our impact on the environment.
Evolutions in Green Mining Processes
Mining companies are actively looking at ways to increase environmental sustainability while not compromising their ability to meet frac sand demands. Here are some of the techniques that companies are practicing to reduce their environmental impact:
Recycling Mining Waste
Mining naturally produces waste that damages the environment when not properly treated. In recent years, mining companies have developed ways to recycle the waste they create. Mine water recycling improves water quality for surrounding communities.
Silica Sand Limits
Dust produced by silica sand mining poses a risk to workers, equipment, and the environment. Mines follow OSHA regulations that dictate permissible limits of silica dust over eight hours.
Pontotoc’s Eco-Friendly Mining Powered by Green Initiatives
Pontotoc Sand & Stone understands the importance of using low-impact mining practices to reduce our influence on the surrounding environment. That is why we’ve installed various green initiatives to limit our environmental damage. Those practices include:
Staff Training
Our eco-friendly mining practices are built on a foundation of knowledge. Quality training is our first line of defense against potential environmental hazards. Every employee undergoes 24 hours of health and safety training in their first 90 days of employment. The topics covered in training include:
- Safe work procedures
- Common health hazards
- Recognizing potential hazards
- Emergency procedures
- Industry-standard protective measures
Keeping our employees up to date on green mining technologies is a top priority at Pontotoc.
Water Recycling
Water is one of the major resources used in frac sand mining. We commissioned a study through a third-party engineering firm to better understand the groundwater supply around our mine. Using the results from this study, we designed a moisture reduction system (MRS) that allows us to operate with a focus on sustainability. Our MRS recycles water off our mine’s stockpiles for reuse rather than depositing it into local ponds and streams. Our mine water recycling program allows us to recycle 98% of the water we use.
Energy Efficient Sand Washing
Pontotoc uses a closed water wash loop to wash and sort our sand. Instead of routing turbid water to settling ponds, we send used water to a settling tank, separating material from water into mud. The mud is squeezed and processed, reclaiming as much moisture as possible to filter out solids before being pumped into holding tanks to be used again.
Eco-Friendly Sand Drying
We drain water from our sand in a specially-designed decant building before sending it to our dryers. By draining water from the sand before drying, we limit energy usage and improve our overall environmental performance.
State-of-the-Art Baghouse
Dust entering the air is a constant concern for mines. Pontotoc installed a state-of-the-art baghouse that keeps dust from leaking into the atmosphere and improves overall air quality at our mine. We also water the county road daily to minimize dust settlement.
Pontotoc’s Green Initiatives Help Build a Better Community
Eco-friendly mining practices extend beyond the boundaries of a mine. Pontotoc understands that having a strong relationship with the local community is important.
Our Innovative Solar Advanced Warning System (SAWS)
While some mines have traditional road signs that remind drivers to look for trucks, Pontotoc utilizes SAWS signs that immediately warn drivers using LED lights when a truck is approaching. This innovative system increases public awareness and road safety for the entire community.
Maintaining Community Relationships
Maintaining a healthy relationship with the local community helps keep us motivated in our green mining processes. Pontotoc prioritizes establishing healthy relationships with the local community and remaining engaged in local activities.
Protecting the Environment With Our Green Mining Processes
Pontotoc understands the importance of protecting the environment for future generations. That is why we use the latest technology for our eco-friendly mining and continue researching new ways to improve our green mining process. Contact Pontotoc today if you’re interested in partnering with a mine that practices proper safety and industry procedures.
