From 14.06.2024 to 21.06.2024, Dr. Flavia Digiacomo from Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) and Rosa Sengl from the University of Potsdam (UP) travelled to South Africa to carry out the first sampling campaign. Together with Lena-Sophie Kuhr from Impact Catalyst, they worked in the former mine in Free State. This area, known for its industrial past, offers a unique opportunity to study the current environmental conditions.
During the sampling, soils were taken from different depths to analyse the geological and chemical properties (fig. 1). Surface waters were also taken to assess water quality. This comprehensive data collection is crucial to gain a detailed understanding of the status quo of the area and to plan future environmental measures.
The collaboration of scientists from different institutions and countries underlines the importance of this project. Their work marks the beginning of a series of studies that will help to better understand the region and develop sustainable solutions to the environmental challenges.
