During the care and maintenance phase, production is stopped but the site is managed to ensure it remains in a safe and stable condition.
The mine might be considered to be temporarily unviable,[1] due to current economic conditions or unfavourable resource prices,[2][3] which are expected to improve at a later date.
[6] While the mine is closed, a care and maintenance program will manage environmental risks associated with tailings dumps, hazardous materials and open and underground pits.
Public health and safety considerations and emergency response plans continue during the care and maintenance phase.
Some countries have legislative frameworks to ensure care and maintenance programs are in place before granting mine "closure certificates".