Effects of acid mine drainage from collapsed tailings dam on Zambia’s human riparian communities: a fuzzy cognitive model perspective

Abstract

Abstract Acid Mine Drainage (AMD) is a major global environmental and public health concern, particularly in mining areas. Following the collapse of the tailings dam at Sino Metals Leach Limited Mine in Zambia’s Copperbelt Province and the subsequent discharge of mining effluents into the Mwambashi River, a cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the impacts on adjoining human riparian communities. Using the Mentor Modeler software for Fuzzy Cognitive Mapping (FCM), we analysed and predicted the socio-ecological effects of AMD on the communities living adjacent to riparian areas. The study revealed that AMD and the consequent decline in water quality triggered a cascade of adverse socio-economic and health impacts among the communities living adjacent to riparian areas. Understanding the FCMs in emergencies related to such impacts is crucial for targeted interventions, particularly in data-limited environments. These insights can inform more effective allocation of limited financial and technical resources, enhance decision-making by the authorities, and support the development of community-based strategies to empower affected communities and mitigate or prevent future AMD-related disasters.