The
outstanding environmental management initiatives undertaken by Novacoal at its
Western Main Site near Lithgow in
New South Wales
over the
past five years are detailed in this paper. These initiatives have been based on
a combination of proven and innovative investigation and implementation
techniques, close consultation with regulatory authorities and full support by
colliery management. The results of these initiatives have enabled the colliery
to exceed its pollution control obligations from a base well below industry
standards. The initial poor condition of the mine was the result of over 50
years of traditional mining which paid little regard to environmental
management. The transformation of the colliery within such a short period, with
limited capital, is considered a model for the N.S.W. coal industry.