IMWA has 518 members comprising pragmatic consultants, mining industry professionals, academic researchers (including faculty, graduate students, and undergraduates), and government scientists and regulators.
The conference brings together specialised expertise across multiple disciplines, including chemistry, hydrogeology, microbiology, geophysics, and engineering – particularly mining and civil. Dr Shabalala addressed the global environmental challenge of AMD, which results from mining activities and has significant ecological consequences.
In South Africa, AMD is typically treated using active methods that are costly, energy-intensive, and produce large volumes of toxic sludge, requiring continuous chemical input.
The IMWA conference employed a rigorous review process: abstracts were evaluated by members of the International Scientific Committee, and full papers underwent peer review by two or three experts. Submissions were revised where necessary, and those not meeting IMWA's high standards were rejected.
Dr Shabalala's presentation, co-authored with Master's student Ms Monica Ngomane and Dr Nokuthula Khanyile, was titled The Evaluation of a Pilot Pervious Concrete Treatment System for Acid Mine Drainage Treatment. It investigates the use of pervious concrete-reactive barrier technology for managing polluted water from abandoned mines.
The research demonstrated that this method not only treats contaminated water effectively but also contributes to the rehabilitation of mining-impacted land. Furthermore, it shows that treated mine water has potential for reuse in activities such as agriculture.
"Given these challenges, my presentation focused on exploring more effective, affordable, and simpler solutions for AMD treatment," said Dr Shabalala. "In particular, I highlighted the potential of natural materials – such as porous pavements – as a greener, more sustainable approach."
Dr Shabalala's participation not only highlighted UMP's growing contribution to global environmental research but also facilitated promising international academic connections.
Her presentation was well received, with several international researchers expressing interest in future collaboration. "I'm excited to build on the connections made during the conference and to collaborate on innovative ways to restore mining-impacted environments for a healthier future," she added.
Dr Shabalala has presented her work at numerous local and international conferences and has published in several accredited journals. She is a recipient of the Water Research Commission's Water Technologies Demonstration Programme grant, and holds an NRF Thuthuka grant under the post-PhD track.
Her ongoing academic contributions include developing low-cost, low-maintenance technologies for polluted mine water treatment, designing and implementing green infrastructure solutions to mitigate climate change risks, and enriching the learning experience of her students.
Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures supplied.