Mine closure
Rio Tinto manages land in a sustainable manner in consultation with local communities from exploration through planning, construction, operation and closure of operations. On the land we use we seek to maintain ecosystem functions, biodiversity and habitat. We try to ensure continuing community access where possible to maintain cultural connections and social function of the land, and we plan for closure of the site to create viable land uses which continue to contribute to sustainable development after mining has been completed.
Planning for mine closure starts before mining commences. It is then reviewed and improved throughout the life of the mine. Where possible, disturbed land is restored concurrently with mining. Once mining has ceased, the remaining disturbed land is landscaped and rehabilitated for alternative land uses. Through consultation and planning with local communities throughout the life of the mine Rio Tinto aims to secure sustainable livelihoods for community members after closure.
The Group's biodiversity strategy provides a framework to address the interests and concerns for post mining regeneration of several interest groups. The elements of the strategy include a position statement, guiding principles, and a guidance document for our operations.
The Group has developed a Closure Standard that was implemented during 2004 and 2005. Associated closure planning guidelines have been developed to help businesses implement the requirements. The guidelines require the establishment of a closure knowledge base, the development of a strategy for closure, the compilation of a closure management plan, and regular review of the strategy and management plan in the light of changing circumstances.
Decommissioning of mines requires a full plan of action informed by a feasibility study drawn up two to five years prior to the planned date of termination of production. Post decommissioning management is required with periodic monitoring.
Mining legacy
Examples of closed operations
Flambeau in the US completed production in early 1997. Since then the site has been fully reclaimed. In November 2001, Flambeau received its notice of completion with the State, signifying the achievement of vegetative diversity and maturity as required by the closure plan.
In 2003, Flambeau won the Department of the Interior's Bureau of Land Management Hardrock Mineral Award for Community Outreach and Economic Security, which recognises responsible mineral resource sustainable development.[Case study below]
A return to beauty [pdf].
Ridgeway Mine in South Carolina, US completed production in 1999. During reclamation site monitoring in 2001, research and educational opportunities became increasingly apparent as wetlands developed, pit lake biology and water management indicators were discovered, and the tailings vegetative cover began to mature.
Ridgeway mine [pdf], a study in sustainable development.
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