Acid rock drainage (ARD)

Acid Mine Drainage (AMD) is a type of pollution that occurs when mineral-rich rocks are exposed to air and water, often due to mining activities. This exposure causes sulfide minerals, mainly pyrite, to react with water and oxygen, producing sulfuric acid. The acid then dissolves metals in the rocks, creating highly acidic water that can flow into streams, rivers, and groundwater. This polluted water can harm ecosystems, contaminate drinking water sources, and pose health risks to humans and wildlife. Managing AMD involves preventing exposure of sulfide minerals or treating contaminated water before it enters the environment.