Abstract: The estimation was given for methods for determination of environmental costs and criterion to evaluate, the mineral potential of the region in the form of discounted earnings with the compensation costs for the preservation of the environment recommended. It is proposed to evaluate the effectiveness of the use of secondary mineral potential, taking into account environmental and economic situation, the cost of goods of recyclable resources and increasing effectiveness of subsoil use. Using an example of a mining company, it is shown how the use of non-traditional technological schemes provides both economic and environmental benefits.