Submissions are now being called for a review of mine closure planning guidelines that aim to ensure Western Australian mines can be closed, decommissioned and rehabilitated in an ecologically sustainable way.
The Mine Closure Guidelines were prepared by the Department of Mines and Petroleum (DMP) and the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) in 2011, and the submissions now being called will help in regard to any improvements that can be made.
DMP Environment Division Executive Director Dr Phil Gorey said the original guidelines had improved the efficiency of the assessment and approvals process by harmonising the requirements of DMP and the EPA.
“Mine closure planning is an integral part of mine development and operations planning,” Dr Gorey said.
“In order to enable better environmental outcomes, a collaborative approach is being taken to guide development of mine closure plans.
“An important part of this approach is to periodically review the guidelines for their effectiveness.”
Dr Gorey said there were a number of issues that continue to challenge effective mine closure.
“This challenge includes issues such as acid and metalliferous drainage, mine pit lakes and the successful re-establishment of recalcitrate species,” Dr Gorey said.
“The department and the EPA support taking a risk-based approach to manage these issues.
“It is also important companies consider the socio-economic aspects of closure planning, in particular, the impacts of mine closure on local communities.”
Submissions are being sought on the guidelines until 22 January 2014 and the guidelines can be accessed here.
For more information, including access to feedback forms, go to www.dmp.wa.gov.au/mineclosure
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