IPB University Professor Presents Agrogeology Paradigm for Post-Mining Land Reclamation
A professor from the Faculty of Agriculture at IPB University, Prof Iskandar, stated that agrogeology is an innovative solution for agricultural land management and post-mining land reclamation. He conveyed this in a press conference ahead of the IPB University Professorial Scientific Oration (6/2).
“Agrogeology encompasses several studies, including the role of soil parent material in soil development and productivity. It also examines the benefits of geological byproducts in enhancing agricultural productivity and their contributions,” he explained.
As a country located in an active volcanic zone, Indonesia has significant potential for utilizing rocks as soil amendments. “Indonesia is also part of the Ring of Fire, with 127 active volcanoes,” said Prof Iskandar.
During eruptions, he continued, these volcanoes contribute to soil rejuvenation by adding nutrients derived from various rock types.
“No local plant species will thrive if the soil is not fertile. Therefore, improving the quality of post-mining soil is a crucial first step toward successful reclamation,” he emphasized.
Regarding industrial waste, Prof Iskandar noted that byproducts such as fly ash and bottom ash (FABA) and red mud from the Bayer process (the purification of bauxite ore to produce aluminum) can be utilized as soil amendments.
“Experimental results show that the use of FABA combined with compost—what we call ‘Komfaba’ (a mix of compost and FABA)—can improve the chemical properties of ultisols (nutrient-poor soils),” he explained.
Prof Iskandar stressed that post-mining land reclamation requires a specific approach due to the diverse characteristics of the soil. The initial step in soil rehabilitation is the application of appropriate soil amendments.
“The management of acid mine drainage is also crucial. Methods such as encapsulation and permeable reactive barriers using FABA can be effective solutions. Through the agrogeology approach, improving soil quality will further support the sustainable management of agricultural and post-mining lands,” concluded Prof Iskandar. (dr) (IAAS/RUM)
