Vol. 9 No. 1 (2006): INDONESIAN MINING JOURNAL Vol. 09 No. 1 February 2006

The unique geological setting of Indonesia has made Indonesia as one of the richest countries in the world for natural and mineral resources. However, mastering in mineral processing technology is still one of problems when beneficiating the minerals, notably to benefit those that do not fulfill industrial specification or have limited deposits. Indonesia retains some industrial mineral deposits that are limited in reserve or need upgrading prior to marketing them. Seeking a new processing technology seems the answer to solve the problems. Three papers issued in this journal discuss about mineral upgrading and potential.

The fatal gas blast occurred in Daping coal mine, Henan Province – China in 2004, has left 79 dead and 69 others missing with slim chance of survival by Saturday afternoon, while another 57 people were reported killed or missing in three other coals mine accidents. Similar to Daping tragedy, an accident took place at Kijang Island, Indonesia implies that mine safety is crucial to obtain convenient work environment. A study regarding Kijang Island tragedy had been conducted and its result is presented in this issue.

Negative impact related to mine activities produces adverse environmental changes due to mine pollutant occurrence and landscape change. Contaminants come from mining industries affect the biological, recreational, industrial, and municipal use of larger rivers many miles downstream from mining. Water becomes contaminated when it comes in contact with solid mining waste that remains after mining has ceased and so does the air. It will be polluted by dust, gas or smoke from mining industries. A good environmental management is required to have clean environment. Gas emissions from briquette burning that might be pollutant source need to be studied. A paper re- garding such an effort is discussed in this journal.

Have a good time to read them. Best regards to all. The Editor.