Comparative Analysis of IoT Architectures for Mine Environmental Monitoring: A Literature Review and Evaluation

Abstract

The viability of mining operations and the safety of communities depend on environmental monitoring. This study looks at different Internet of Things architectures that are used to monitor the environment in mine environments, focusing on factors such as communication dependability, energy utilization, scalability, real-time observation, and cost effectiveness. The paper identifies problems with current monitoring methodologies, such as inconsistent monitoring and expensive maintenance costs, based on an examination of some scholarly articles and a case study with the Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA). As a response, the research proposes a hybrid IoT framework that combines cloud services, remote calibration features, and remote sensing networks while also factoring in climate adaptation. These findings highlight the revolutionary potential of IoT systems in boosting environmental surveillance in mine environments, which can result in sustainable practices and improved community health. These insights are vital for regulators and other interested parties.