The generation of mineral wastes is directly related to ore type, economic grade and the type of mine. For example, underground mines remove less waste rock than open cut mines. Under current mining techniques, a reduction of these types of wastes is not feasible as it would lead to inefficient use of the mineral resource. Therefore, our goal in this area is to continue to dispose of all mineral wastes on site and to maximise the amount of waste disposed of in pit, thereby reducing the amount of land disturbed by stockpiles and rock dumps. We then aim to undertake progressive rehabilitation of these areas.

Efficiency targets for non mineral wastes are feasible and the three R’s - reduce, reuse and recycle - have been a focus of many Rio Tinto businesses to date.
The objectives of our management of waste are to:

• ensure the physical and chemical stability of final disposal;
• minimise the footprint of mineral waste disposal;
• reduce non mineral waste; and
• eliminate hazardous waste to the greatest extent possible.