Water scarcity represents a sustainability challenge affecting economies, societies and ecosystems globally, and this challenge is increasingly exacerbated by salt, or total dissolved solids (TDS), loading in fresh waters. For the mining and minerals industries, there is a growing need to recognise TDS as a potential concern, and to strategize and innovate solutions. This paper examines the mechanisms by which these industries may contribute to TDS loading, the possible implications for environmental and socioeconomic well being, as well as those for industry itself, and the control and treatment options that currently exist. Finally, several case studies of management approaches in different parts of the world are presented in order to highlight the importance of site specific parameters, and the global commonality of the issue.
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