Mwana Africa seeks to limit the impact of its operations on the environment, including responsible waste disposal and prevention of pollution, optimising the use of resources such as water, fuel and electricity and conserving local biodiversity.
Mwana Africa’s environmental management systems are informed by the processes and practices of ISO14001, an international benchmarking certification. BNC achieved ISO14001 certification in 2005.
In general, the environmental impact of exploration activities is less than that of operations. Nonetheless, Mwana Africa does seek to minimise and mitigate the disruption of crops and vegetation caused by road building, and by drilling activities.
Managing the environmental impact of an operation begins at the planning stage, with preparation of an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and an Environmental Management Plan (EMP). The technical and operating specifications of the project are then determined in accordance with this plan. Systematic monitoring takes place at each of Mwana Africa’s operations on an ongoing basis, to assess and remedy where necessary the impact of the project on the environment.
Mwana Africa recognises its obligation to rehabilitate the sites where it has operated. Financial provisions are in place for costs associated with the closure of the company’s operations in Zimbabwe and South Africa, as prescribed by local laws.
