Abstract:
The economic viability of integrating microalgae carbon sequestration with coal mine ecological restoration technologies is investigated. It begins by delineating the current environmental damages caused by mining activities, particularly to water bodies, and outlines the ecological restoration needs in key regions such as Inner Mongolia and Shaanxi Province. Relevant national and local policy frameworks and legal requirements are reviewed. Through an analysis of the technological pathway for microalgae-based carbon sequestration and ecological restoration and a practical case study of the China Energy Group Baorixile Project, in which pit drainage water was employed to culture microalgae for the restoration of a 50 000 m² waste dump, the effectiveness of this technology is verified. The project led to a 42% increase in soil organic matter and a 28% enhancement in vegetation biomass, thereby validating its technical feasibility. A cost−benefit techno-economic assessment model is constructed, evaluating the economics per hectare of restored land. The analysis indicates a net annual profit of 24 thousand RMB per hectare, confirming the project's economic viability. Finally, targeted policy recommendations and future prospects are proposed. Suggestions include government support through special subsidies, tax incentives, and the establishment of technical standards to foster technology dissemination. The integration of this approach with agriculture and photovoltaic-based desert control is also envisioned. Theoretical underpinnings and decision-making references for the broad application and sustainable advancement of microalgae carbon sequestration technology in mine site restoration are aimed to provided.