Mining of finite mineral resources makes closure an inevitable part of any mining operation. The focus on responsible mining is increasing and there are growing expectations for mines to operate and close in a manner that enhances environmental, social and governance (ESG) aspects balanced against business objectives of creating economic value for shareholders.
In Australia, there are few examples of successfully planned and implemented post-closure land use outcomes except for those that have achieved rehabilitation closure criteria focused on biodiversity, plant species abundance or cover primarily for native vegetation or agricultural land uses.
Closure outcomes can range from in-perpetuity management to relinquishment of tenure, while interim care and maintenance outcome can include strategic retention of tenure to protect future mineral resources. Responsible repurposing has the potential to add value to any site in any of these scenarios in triple bottom line terms.
A mine in Western Australia’s Pilbara region was used as a pilot site to evaluate the practicalities of achieving repurposed land use outcomes. The repurposing concepts were aimed at providing socioeconomic benefit for local communities while ensuring no conflict with existing and potential future BHP activities at or adjacent to the site.