Various companies in Hungary

Recultivation/restoration:

- spontaneous regeneration where the mining site is surrounded by large natural areas;

- type of the mine determines the possibilities of natural regeneration (what kind of species and habitats can appear), but measures can help the success;

- the long-term protection of successful regeneration has to be ensured by several means (legal, technical, etc..).

Numerous mining site recultivations were done in Hungary by forest or grassland plantation.

Governmental challenges

- arrangement of land administration and ownership;

- legal protection of important mine shafts and geological profiles (national protection, Natura 2000);

- specific orders aiming better recultivation possibilities by the permission of new mining sites;

- control of the authorities on recultivation;

- determination of nature reconstruction measures and further landuse (nature protection v. recreation).

Bats

The shafts of stone mines are very similar to caves. Bats use it for wintering, resting and breeding. Easy access is key factor for bats, while Access of carnivores is a great risk. Heterogenous, rough surface is preferable for hanging.

Birds

High stone walls can be optimal for the nesting of sensitive, rare birds because of the lack of disturbances. Majority of the population nests in artificial walls in Hungary.

More details in attachment.