Advances in Copper Extraction: Sustainable Approaches and Bioleaching Techniques

The environmental impacts of mining and mineral processing, particularly in developing countries, have been increasingly significant. Mining activities, especially in open-pit mines and the extraction of copper from sulfide ores, generate pollution and acid leakage that harm ecosystems. Given the abundant presence of copper in nature, particularly in sulfide minerals, developing environmentally friendly extraction methods is paramount. This study evaluates modern and sustainable methods for copper extraction from the Aynak copper mine, one of the largest copper mines in Afghanistan. Specifically, it compares and assesses bioleaching and hydrometallurgical methods as environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional pyrometallurgical (smelting) processes in copper extraction. Compared to pyrometallurgical methods, the study investigates the environmental impacts and economic efficiency of bioleaching and hydrometallurgical methods. The results indicate that biotechnological methods, such as bioleaching, significantly reduce environmental impacts, improve production efficiency, and lower operational costs. In contrast, pyrometallurgical methods are associated with higher environmental and economic costs. Given the advantages of biotechnological methods, it is recommended that these methods be adopted as sustainable alternatives for copper extraction from low-grade ores at the Aynak copper mine, especially from sulfide ores, to promote environmentally and economically sustainable development in the sector.