Using examples of major mining and industrial facilities in Georgia, including coal, manganese, copper-polymetallic, gold, barite and other deposits, the paper discusses waste generation during ore extraction and processing and the associated problems. The conditions determining the volumes of waste generated are assessed; among the principal factors are the technologies used, whose shortcomings lead to the rapid depletion of deposit resources, particularly their high-grade portions. It is noted that, in terms of adverse environmental impact, the use of technologies involving carcinogenic substances is particularly undesirable. Possible positive aspects are also identified, namely that opportunities have been established for the secondary processing of these wastes through the development and practical application of modern, innovative and environmentally safe technologies. The biotechnological method is considered one such approach. The results of studies conducted and continuing at the Biotechnology Research Department of the TSU Alexander Tvalchrelidze Caucasian Institute of Mineral Resources are analyzed. Parameters established through laboratory testing of technological schemes developed on the basis of these studies are presented. The quantitative parameters of mineral resources that may be obtained through their practical implementation are assessed, and the possibilities for generalizing the developed technological schemes are noted.
