Research on ecological restoration of mine wasteland to a healthy area Xishan District of Taiyuan City case study

In the context of accelerated industrialization and urbanization, degraded mining areas located in peri-urban zones generate significant environmental and social impacts. From a healthy city perspective, this study examines the health benefits derived from ecological restoration and functional reuse of mining areas, using the Xishan area in Taiyuan City, China, as a case study. Based on field investigations and comparative analysis of environmental data before and after intervention, the study quantitatively assesses the effects of comprehensive ecological restoration on environmental health. The results indicate significant improvements in air quality, water, soil, vegetation, and biodiversity. In addition, online surveys and land-use reuse analysis were used to identify key health needs perceived by urban and rural residents. The findings demonstrate that integrated restoration and reuse approaches can enhance environmental quality, address public health needs, and support the transformation of traditional mining cities into healthy and sustainable urban models.