Contaminants in mining environments cannot spread into the environment if they are properly contained with impermeable liners which prevent the migration of hazardous substances. When used to line containment areas such as tailings ponds, waste rock piles, and heap leach pads, geomembranes effectively isolate contaminants.
This prevents the spread of harmful contaminants into the environment such as heavy metals, acids, and other toxic materials. Geomembrane liners are also often used to manage leachate and runoff by directing potentially contaminated fluids to treatment facilities.
