The International Symposium on Minesite Recultivation was held in Cottbus, Germany during 6-8 June, 1994. Most of the papers contained in this volume result from contributions to the symposium. Various aspects of research into the recultivation of open-cast minesites are covered in this special issue, along with discussions which attempt to stimulate international cooperation in the broad field of minesite recultivation, especially the exchange of knowledge, experience and modern research strategies between western, middle-east and east European countries. This special issue volume will stimulate greater international commitment to integrated research on the various aspects of minesite recultivation and related environmental problems.