“ Recently , various mining companies have joined drives to report and decrease their footprint and impact on the environment . An example of this is the carbon disclosure project ( CDP ): a global disclosure project that encourages companies , cities , states , and regions to measure and manage their environmental impacts ,” says Van Coller . Globally the mining industry has also committed to a new water stewardship . Members of the International Council on Mining and Metals ( ICMM ), including 23 of the world ’ s largest mining companies , undertook a binding position statement on the urgency of more sustainable water practices .
The water stewardship statement would ensure that members apply strong and transparent water governance ( including robust public reporting ), managing water at operations effectively , and collaborating to achieve responsible and sustainable water use . According to Van Coller , it is a clear indication that the ICMM ’ s members — large mineral producers such as Anglo American , BHP Billiton , Glencore , and Newmont — are viewing water use as a top priority .
ICMM was prompted by the plight of more than 1.2 billion people living in areas of water scarcity and the increasing threats to natural habitats , said its chief executive , Tom Butler , in a statement . “ The ICMM recognises that industry can play an important role in tackling this global issue .”
“ With scientists not predicting a pleasant future with regard to rainfall and temperatures , it is clear that all sectors of society need to work towards more sustainable and environmentally friendly use of our water resources . The mining industry , especially in southern Africa , can lead the way with new methodologies and processes applied to the management of both clean and dirty water . This will show the way towards sustainable water management for all industries across the globe ,” Van Coller concludes .
Digby Wells ’ top seven tips for improved water usage :
1 ) |
Good storm water and dirty water management . |
2 ) |
Site-wide water and salt balances . |
3 ) |
Improvements in liners system applied to waste facilities . |
4 ) |
Passive and active treatments like artificial wetlands and |
dedicated treatment plants . |
5 ) |
Better and more efficient dust suppression systems using less |
water . |
6 ) |
Processing methodologies using little to no water . |
7 ) |
Re-use and treatment of water . u |
The water stewardship statement would ensure that members apply strong and transparent water governance ( including robust public reporting ), managing water at operations effectively , and collaborating to achieve responsible and sustainable water use .
Collahuasi Copper Mine
Mines across the Chilean copper belt are implementing various water processing initiatives . Collahuasi Copper Mine uses a multistage on-site water treatment with zero liquid discharge .
32 Water Sewage & Effluent March / April 2017