The Mines and Quarries Restoration Network, created as a result of the LIFE TECMINE project, present in the Senate - LIFE Tecmine

As a result of the LIFE TECMINE project, coordinated by the Forest Planning and Management Service of the Directorate General for the Natural and Animal Environment, the Mining and Quarry Restoration Network was created, a space for the connection of actors involved in environmental restoration: public administration, scientific community, mining companies and engineering consultants.

On 10 March 2025, Beatriz Olmo Gilabert, Technical Director of the Network, appeared before the Senate Ecological Transition Commission to explain the main challenges and opportunities in the restoration of mining areas in Spain and to explain the role of the Network.

During her speech, Beatriz Olmo underlined the relevance of ecological restoration as a key element to mitigate the environmental impacts of mining and promote sustainability in the affected territories.

The Technical Director highlighted the importance of the restoration of mines and quarries as an essential tool for environmental recovery and sustainability. She stressed that, despite the progress made in recent decades, there are still significant challenges that require attention. Among them, he mentioned the need for greater collaboration between public administrations and the private sector, the implementation of innovative technologies in restoration processes, and raising public awareness of the relevance of these projects for the environment.

After his presentation, a round of spokespersons was opened with representatives from different parliamentary groups. Each spokesperson raised questions and comments related to current restoration policies, project funding and strategies for involving local communities in these processes.

In her reply, Beatriz Olmo responded to the senators' concerns, emphasising the need to establish clearer and more efficient regulatory frameworks to facilitate the restoration of areas affected by extractive activities. She also highlighted the Network's commitment to promoting good practices and serving as a bridge between the different entities involved in environmental restoration.

The presentation concluded by highlighting the relevance of tackling the challenges of mine and quarry restoration from an integrated perspective, taking into account environmental, social and economic aspects, thus guaranteeing sustainable development for future generations.

Different moments of the appearance of Beatriz Olmo, Technical Director of the Network, in the Senate

Board of Directors of the Network in the Senate