Strategic Management for Circular Economy: The Case Study Of Tailings Pond No.1, Harghita-Băi, România

Abstract

Mining activities generated large quantities of waste material stored in tailings ponds. In many regions, these sites represent environmental risks for ecosystems and nearby communities, while their management is usually limited to minimal maintenance and monitoring. In the context of the transition toward a circular economy and the growing importance of ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) policies, these sites can also be reconsidered as potential economic resources. This paper analyse how strategic management tools can help identify sustainable solutions for the reuse of materials stored in tailings ponds. The research is based on an exploratory case study conducted on tailings pond no. 1 in Harghita Băi, Romania. The methodology used includes the analysis of the strategic environment through the application of the STEPLE and SWOT tools, in order to evaluate the factors that influence the management of the site. The results show that the pond contains approximately 2.5–3 million tonnes of kaolin sand and approximately 100,000 tonnes of kaolin, deposited over an area of approximately 16–17 hectares. Kaolin can be used for the development of cosmetic products and spa treatments, but also in agriculture, in the form of products with a photoprotective role for plants. Kaolin sand can be reused in the construction materials industry, including for obtaining cement materials or ceramic products. The conclusions of the study show that strategic management tolls, combined with circular economy principles such as resource recovery and waste reduction, can transform abandoned mining sites from environmental risks into opportunities for sustainable economic development. UDC: 005.21:504.062.4:628.3(498); JEL: Q56, Q57, L21