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ENVIRONMENTAL
Skorpion Zinc, Namibia
BOOST TO NATIONAL ECONOMY WHILE SAFEGUARDING IMPORTANT NATURE RESERVE
The Sperrgebiet in southern Namibia is one of the world’s best
preserved natural environments. For over 80 years it has been closed
to all public access, and as a result is in a pristine state, harbouring
many rare and endemic species of flora and fauna. Under its surface,
however, lies a valuable resource – zinc. For the past ten years WSP
Environmental has been supporting the Skorpion Zinc project in the
identification, assessment and mitigation of impacts of mining zinc in
this particularly environmentally sensitive region.
The Skorpion Zinc project is a good example of the ‘cradle-to-grave’
approach to environmental management.This began with the
commissioning of an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) for the
exploration phase, continuing through the Environmental Assessment
and EMP for both construction and operations to the development
of an Environmental Management System for operations.WSP
Environmental carried out all these services and continues to provide
support to the project today.
Outputs of our work include:
■ On-site waste separation and recycling programme
■ Environmental Code of Conduct signed by all site personnel
■ Strict track and litter control
■ Full-time environmental coordinator on site
■ Massive plant rescue and relocation programme
■ Innovative designs to reduce water consumption
The design philosophy adopted from the beginning of the project was
to eliminate as many of the avoidable impacts as possible through
careful site planning and the use of appropriate designs.Where
impacts could not be eliminated, they were minimised through
various control measures and technological solutions. Furthermore,
there was a conscious effort to maximise the benefits of the project
for the people of Namibia.
In meeting an increase in world demand for zinc, the project is
proving commercially competitive and economically robust, with
mine production costs amongst the lowest in the world. It has been
a major boost to the Namibian economy in general and has brought
much needed economic and social development to the local area.
Skorpion Zinc Awards
Premium Award for Environmental Excellence
International Association for Impact Assessment (South Africa):
ISO14000 accreditation achieved, facilitating on-going
environmental performance.
Client:
Reunion Mining Namibia (Pty) Ltd, later acquired by Anglo Base Metals
Zinc Division
Project size:
Mineable reserve of 14.7m t of zinc to produce some 150 000 t
per annum of zinc ingots over a mine life of 12 years
800 m x 400 m open pit, 185 m deep at deepest point
Status:
Feasibility study 1996
Plant commissioning and first zinc poured 2001
WSP services:
Environmental assessment
Environmental management
Environmental training