Mining is serious about environmental variety

The environmental variable is a key factor for the evaluation and approval of investment projects consistent with the law and respectful to the environment, reason why the mining industry takes this variable seriously, as confirmed by Daniel Esquivel K., doctor’s degree in geological sciences and specialist in mining and environment.

Because of this, the great mining companies of metallic minerals extraction like copper, gold, silver, iron and manganese, count with managers or personnel in charged of the environmental aspects “which reflect the constant concern to include this variable within their operations”, he added.

In an opinion article titled Mining and Environment, published by the Planeta magazine, edited by the Panamanian Mining Chamber (CAMIPA), Ezquivel explained that the mining projects contemplate three basic phases: project development, mine operation and mine closing.

He stated that the environmental variable is considered from the first phase, when the exploitation activities begin, continues during the pre-feasibility and feasibility phases, culminates with the construction of the mine and the necessary infrastructures, and is also included during the phases of operation and closing of the mine.

Referring to the “mining operation” implies the activities related with the extraction and processing of the minerals, disposal of waste and residual materials, and transportation of the liquefied product, in the event the mining company does this, he added.

He highlighted this is the main phase for the mining company because here is where the costs of the exploration, construction, and other related expenses start to be compensated.

He explained that during the first phase of the development of the project, the environmental variable is focused in the prediction and relief of the negative impacts through the evaluation process of the Environmental Impact Study.

In the second phase of operation, opportunities and alternatives are offered for the mining companies to be able to increase the conservation of the biodiversity within their areas of operation, being proactive with the evaluation and handling of the biodiversity.

Esquivel said that while being proactive with the good management of the biodiversity, the mining companies obtain benefits such as increased trust and loyalty from their investors, reduced and dispute free processes to obtain permits due to better relations with the authorities, improved relationships with the community and non-governmental associations, greater motivation of the employees, as well as less risks and responsibilities.

Petaquilla Gold S.A. uses first world technology in their production process with internationally recognized standards of the world mining industry, with a turnover of 67 million dollars last year became the first item of exportation in 2010

The projections for this year reveal the mining company will sell 75 to 90 million dollars in gold exports.