Buried Industrial Wastes from Tyrnyauz Tungsten-Molybdenum Plant (North Caucasus): Assessment of the Negative Impact on the Ecosystems of Adjacent Territories and Problems of Their Complete Disposal

There are large storages of industrial waste from the Tyrnyauz tungsten-molybdenum (TTMP), Sadon and Fiagdon polymetallic, Urup copper-pyrite-polymetallic and Lermontov uranium mining and processing plants (MPPs) in the North Caucasian Federal District of Russia, which can pose an environmental threat to the adjacent territories. On the other hand, the wastes of MPPs can be of significant practical interest if high concentrations of a number of valuable ore elements (Mo, W, Pb, Zn, Cu, Ag, etc.) are found in them with their significant reserves. Industrial wastes from TTMP is disposed of in two tailings. This publication presents the results of comprehensive studies of industrial waste TTMP with the identification of pollution sources and an assessment of the types and extent of their negative impact on the ecosystem of adjacent territories.