Resource depletion and environmental degradation have resulted from the substantial increase in the use of natural aggregates and construction materials brought on by the growing demand for infrastructure development. Road building using mining waste has become a viable substitute that reduces the buildup of industrial waste while providing ecological and economic advantages. In order to assess the appropriateness of several mining waste materials for use in road building, this study investigates their engineering characteristics. These materials include slag, fly ash, tailings, waste rock, and overburden. To ensure long-term performance in pavement applications, this study evaluates their tensile and compressive strength, resistance to abrasion, durability under freeze–thaw cycles, and chemical stability. This review highlights the potential of mining waste materials as sustainable alternatives in road construction. Waste rock and slag exhibit excellent mechanical strength and durability, making them suitable for high-traffic pavements. Although fly ash and tailings require stabilization, their pozzolanic properties enhance subgrade reinforcement and soil stabilization. Properly processed overburden materials are viable for subbase and embankment applications. By promoting the reuse of mining waste, this study supports landfill reduction, carbon emission mitigation, and circular economy principles. Overall, mining byproducts present a cost-effective and environmentally responsible alternative to conventional construction materials. To support broader implementation, further efforts are needed to improve stabilization techniques, monitor long-term field performance, and establish effective policy frameworks.
The expansive development of infrastructure has led to the increased consumption of virgin aggregates in road construction, resulting in significant environmental impacts. High carbon emissions, habitat devastation, and resource depletion are only a few of the negative environmental effects of these materials’ extraction and processing
[1]. One sustainable solution to these problems is the use of waste mining materials in road construction, which has been investigated by engineers and researchers. Large volumes of waste, such as tailings, waste rock, slag, fly ash, and overburden materials, are produced by mining operations and are frequently dumped in landfills or abandoned sites, which pollutes the air, contaminates the land, and depletes water supplies
[2]. Reusing mining byproducts as construction materials, rather than discarding them as waste, presents a practical and sustainable solution to the dual challenges of infrastructure development and waste management. This approach aligns with the global shift toward resource efficiency and environmental stewardship, offering significant environmental, economic, and societal benefits. Utilizing mining waste in road construction mitigates the adverse environmental impacts typically associated with mining operations, such as land degradation and water pollution, while simultaneously reducing the reliance on virgin raw materials. This, in turn, helps conserve natural resources, lowers material extraction costs, and minimizes the energy-intensive processes involved in sourcing and processing traditional construction materials
[3].
From an economic perspective, incorporating mining waste into construction practices can substantially decrease the costs related to material acquisition, transportation, and disposal. These savings can be particularly beneficial for large-scale infrastructure projects, where the volume of material required is substantial. By adopting such practices, construction activities become more cost-effective and contribute to long-term economic sustainability. Moreover, the use of locally available mining waste reduces the need for long-haul transportation, thereby further cutting costs and emissions. In terms of environmental impact, the reuse of mining byproducts contributes to lowering the overall carbon footprint of construction projects
[4]. This is achieved through a reduction in emissions associated with the extraction, processing, and transportation of conventional aggregates. Furthermore, it supports the principles of the circular economy by keeping materials in use for as long as possible and extracting maximum value from them before final disposal. This closed-loop approach promotes sustainable development by emphasizing waste minimization, resource conservation, and environmental protection
[5][6].
The concept of integrating mining waste into construction practices is firmly rooted in the principles of the circular economy and sustainable development, both of which advocate for reducing waste generation, enhancing resource efficiency, and minimizing environmental degradation. By aligning construction practices with these principles, the industry can play a pivotal role in addressing global environmental challenges, including climate change, resource depletion, and ecological imbalance
[6].
This paper provides a comprehensive review of various types of mining waste used in road construction, examining their engineering properties, potential applications, and associated environmental and economic benefits. It also discusses the limitations and challenges that may arise in the implementation of such practices, including technical, regulatory, and public acceptance issues. By analyzing these factors, this study aims to demonstrate the technical and environmental feasibility of using mining waste as a sustainable construction material. Furthermore, it seeks to inform and guide researchers, engineers, and policymakers in developing strategies that facilitate the broader adoption of mining waste in road infrastructure projects, ultimately contributing to more resilient, cost-effective, and environmentally responsible construction practices.