Well planned and executed environmental management plans can reduce life-of-mine operating costs and the need to deal
with major environmental issues at the time of mine closure. With proper planning during the exploration, feasibility and
execution phases of a project, final closure costs can be reduced. The reduction of closure costs should be considered
during exploration and initial feasibility studies and when process facilities, waste rock dumps and tailings impoundments
are designed. During the mining of the resource, closure cost reduction will depend on effective and efficient
environmental management plans for ongoing land clearance, segregation of mine waste materials, management of mine
site water and workshop wastewaters, and the establishment of progressive rehabilitation strategies. These issues are the
responsibility of planning, production, technical support and maintenance personnel at an operating site. The successful
implementation of environmental plans will ensure that all impacts are reduced and that closure issues with major cost
implications are addressed prior to closure of the mine.