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ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT REPORTAnd
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME REPORT
SUBMITTED FOR ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORIZATIONS IN TERMS OF THE NATIONAL
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT ACT, 1998 AND THE NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL
MANAGEMENT WASTE ACT, 2008 IN RESPECT OF LISTED ACTIVITIES THAT HAVE
BEEN TRIGGERED BY APPLICATIONS IN TERMS OF THE MINERAL AND PETROLEUM
RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT ACT, 2002 (MPRDA) (AS AMENDED).
NAME OF APPLICANT: CRONIMET CHROME MINING SA (PTY) LTDTEL NO: 011 958 0544
FAX NO: 011 958 0467
POSTAL ADDRESS: P. O. Box 3319, Witkoppen, 2068
PHYSICAL ADDRESS: 220 Corner 3rd Street and Cedar Road, Building C, Willowwood Office Park,
Broadacres
DMR REFERENCE NUMBER: LP 30/5/1/3/2/1 (115) EM
1. IMPORTANT NOTICEIn terms of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (Act 28 of 2002
as amended), the Minister must grant a prospecting or mining right if among others
the mining “will not result in unacceptable pollution, ecological degradation or
damage to the environment”.
Unless an Environmental Authorisation can be granted following the evaluation of an
Environmental Impact Assessment and an Environmental Management Programme
report in terms of the National Environmental Management Act (Act 107 of 1998)
(NEMA), it cannot be concluded that the said activities will not result in unacceptable
pollution, ecological degradation or damage to the environment.
In terms of section 16(3) (b) of the EIA Regulations, 2014, any report submitted as
part of an application must be prepared in a format that may be determined by the
Competent Authority and in terms of section 17 (1) (c) the competent Authority must
check whether the application has taken into account any minimum requirements
applicable or instructions or guidance provided by the competent authority to the
submission of applications.
It is therefore an instruction that the prescribed reports required in respect of
applications for an environmental authorisation for listed activities triggered by an
application for a right or a permit are submitted in the exact format of, and provide all
the information required in terms of, this template. Furthermore please be advised
that failure to submit the information required in the format provided in this template
will be regarded as a failure to meet the requirements of the Regulation and will lead
to the Environmental Authorisation being refused.
It is furthermore an instruction that the Environmental Assessment Practitioner
must process and interpret his/her research and analysis and use the findings thereof
to compile the information required herein. (Unprocessed supporting information may
be attached as appendices). The EAP must ensure that the information required is
placed correctly in the relevant sections of the Report, in the order, and under the
provided headings as set out below, and ensure that the report is not cluttered with
un-interpreted information and that it unambiguously represents the interpretation of
the applicant.
2. OBJECTIVE OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT PROCESSThe objective of the environmental impact assessment process is to, through a consultative
process—
(a) determine the policy and legislative context within which the activity is located and
document how the proposed activity complies with and responds to the policy and
legislative context;
(b) describe the need and desirability of the proposed activity, including the need and
desirability of the activity in the context of the preferred location;
(c) identify the location of the development footprint within the preferred site based on an
impact and risk assessment process inclusive of cumulative impacts and a ranking
process of all the identified development footprint alternatives focusing on the
geographical, physical, biological, social, economic, heritage and cultural aspects of
the environment;
(d) determine the—-
(1) nature, significance, consequence, extent, duration and probability of the impacts
occurring to inform identified preferred alternatives; and
(ii) degree to which these impacts—
(aa)can be reversed;
(bb)may cause irreplaceable loss of resources, and
(cc) can be avoided, managed or mitigate
(e) identify the most ideal location for the activity within the preferred site based on the
lowest level of environmental sensitivity identified during the assessment;
(f) identify, assess, and rank the impacts the activity will impose on the preferred location
through the life of the activity;
(g) identify suitable measures to manage, avoid or mitigate identified impacts; and
(h) identify residual risks that need to be managed and monitored.
3. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Background Information
Cronimet Chrome Mining SA (Pty) Ltd, a diversified commodity group, contributing
significantly in the sustainable development of South Africa`s economy through mining, is a
holder of a Mining Right for its existing Thaba Cronimet Chrome Mine granted in terms of
section 23 of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act, 2002 (Act No. 28 of
2002) (MPRDA). The right involves exploitation of Cr and PGMs contained in the LG6
(including LG6A), LG4-high Cr to Fe ratio) (Lower Groups), MG2 and MG3 (Middle Groups)
of the Critical Zone in the Western Bushveld Igneous Complex using both opencast and
conventional underground mining method on portions of the farms Elandskuil 378 KQ,
Middellaagte 382 KQ, Moddergat 389 KQ, Roodedam 368 KQ, Schildpadness 385 KQ, and
Zwartkop 369 KQ, located within the Magisterial District of Thabazimbi, Limpopo Province.
Current mining activities at Thaba Cronimet Chrome Mine (Thaba Mine) include ML1 and
ML2 opencast pits, tailings storage facility (TSF), return water dams (RWDs), and Cr
processing plant located on the farms Middellaagte 382 KQ and Elandskuil 378 KQ, with
metallurgical chrome concentration as primary product at 40 000 tonnes per month (t/m).
The Thaba Mine plans to increase production through the expansion of the opencast mining
operations and underground mining areas. Expansion will cover an area of approximately
2129 hectares in extent and will include development of additional Cr and PGMs processing
plant on both the remaining extent of the farm Moddergat 389 KQ and portion 1 of the farm
Middellaagte 382 KQ. Thus, an amendment to the 2009 Environmental Impact Report (EIR)
has been submitted to both Limpopo Department of Economic Development and Tourism
(LEDET) and DMR Limpopo Region to meet the requirements of the National Environmental
Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998) (and Environmental Impact Assessment
Regulations, 2010) and Section 102 of the MPRDA.
The expansion of the opencast and underground mining operations require additional
support infrastructure to be constructed, which includes the expansion of an existing Tailings
Storage Facility (TSF) and development of new TSF as well as waste rock dump (WRD)
sites.
Sazi Environmental Consulting was appointed as an independent Environmental Practitioner
to undertake a full Environmental Impact Assessment process in accordance with the
requirements of the National Environmental Management: Waste Amendment Act, 2014 (Act
No. 26 of 2014) and the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act, 2002 (Act 28 of
2002) together with the associated Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2014
(GNR 984) for the proposed support infrastructure which require a Waste Management
Licence (WML) from the Department of Mineral Resources (DMR) before construction may
commence. According to the Waste Amendment Act, Act 26 of 2014, the Thaba Cronimet
TSF and WRDs are listed in Category A of Schedule 3 as hazardous waste. This activity
requires for the EIA Regulations, 2014, process to be followed.
The Draft Scoping Report including the Plan of Study for Environmental Impact Assessment,
dated December 2015, was made available for a 40 day public commenting period from the
11th of December 2015 to the 01st of February 2016. The Final Scoping Report including the
Plan of Study for Environmental Impact Assessment, dated February 2016, was made
available for a 21 day public commenting period from the 01st of February to the 22nd of
February 2016, and was accepted by the Department of Mineral Resources on 19 April
2016. The Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report is being made available for a 40
day public commenting period from the 10th May 2016 to 07th June 2016. During this time
Interested and Affected Parties are requested to submit written comments to the
Environmental Assessment Practitioner in order for their comments and concerns to be
addressed in the Final Environmental Impact Assessment Report. This report, the Draft EIR
has been compiled in order to meet the requirements of NEMA. The Final Environmental
Impact Assessment Report, documents the findings of the Impact Assessment and will
adhere to GNR 982 of NEMA
Public Notice
All interested and affected parties (I & APs) are hereby notified that the draft Environmental
Impact Report (EIR) will be available for public comment from the 13th of May 2015 to the 13th
of June 2016. The draft EIR summarises key environmental issues identified to date and
recommended mitigation measures and will be available at the following places:
Public Place Locality Contact Person Telephone Number
Thabazimbi Local Municipality7 Rietbok Street T. Masilo 083 552 9341
Thabazimbi Public Library 4th Avenue Lerato Mokwena 014 777 1525
Northam Library 313 Tungsten Street Mariam Manyako 014 784 0128
PUBLIC MEETINGA public meeting will be held as follows:
Venue: Mawala Lodge, Brits Road, 0360
Date: 03 June 2016 Time: 12:00 pm
WHO SHOULD YOU CONTACT?Sazi Environmental Consulting is the independent Environmental Assessment Practitioner
(EAP) for the required Environment Impact Assessment and Public Participation (PP)
process for Thaba Mine. To register as an Interested and Affected Party (I&AP) and to obtain
details of the project, please submit your name, contact information and interest in the
project to:
Ms. Sandisiwe NdlaziSazi Environmental ConsultantB16 Lone Creek, Waterfall Park, Vorna Valley, 1684Tel: 011 312 2806 E-mail: [email protected] or [email protected]
Specialist Studies
The table below outlines the specialists which were appointed to undertake impact assessments
with regards to the proposed additional mining and processing activities and associated
infrastructure. The type of specialist appointed was done in consultation with the competent
authorities and where concerns were raised by IAPs which the EAP deemed necessary for
additional studies to be undertaken in order to determine the impacts. The full reports from all the
specialists are presented in Appendix 3.
Table 1-1: Specialists Appointed
Specialist Study Organization responsible for the study
Vibration Impact Assessment RC Kroch
Air Quality Specialist Derek Fletcher
Ecological Impact Assessment Exigo Sustainability
Geochemistry Specialist Study Enviro Resources Management
Groundwater JMA Consulting (Pty) Ltd
Archaeological Impact Assessment Heritage Contracts and Archaeological Consulting
Noise Study Francois le Roux Malherbe
Socio Economic Study Digby Wells
Soil, Land-use and Land Capability Terra Africa Consultants
Surface water Impact Assessment JR Croucamp
Tailings Water Quality Aquatico Scientific (Pty) Ltd
Visual Specialist Study Newton Landscape Architects cc
Wetland Delineation and Impact Assessment Mr Dieter Kassier
PART ASCOPE OF ASSESSMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT REPORT
4. Contact Person and correspondence address
a) Details of
i) Details of the EAP
Name of the Practitioner: Mrs. Nonkanyiso Zungu
Tel No.: +27 (0)11 312 7208
Fax No. : +27 (0)11 312 7208
E-mail address: [email protected]
1) Expertise of the EAP
(1) The qualifications of the EAP
(With evidence).
Masters in Environmental Management (University of Pretoria): 2011
Bachelor of Science Honours in Biological Sciences (University of KwaZulu-
Natal): 2005
Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences (University of KwaZulu-
Natal): 2003
(2) Summary of the EAP’s past experience. (In carrying out the Environmental Impact Assessment Procedure)
Nonkanyiso Zungu is a Professional Natural Scientist (Pr.Sci.Nat) with 8 years’
experience in the environmental field. She has a Master’s Degree in Environmental
Management, and specializes on Water Resource Management. Nonkanyiso has
extensive experience in water resource management, waste management, and
obtaining environmental authorisations (air, water, waste) across sectors that include:
power generation, infrastructure (Construction), transportation (rail), waste disposal,
water purification & sewage works. The projects she has undertaken include:
Environmental Impact Assessments, Basic Assessments, Environmental Feasibility
Studies, Environmental scoping studies, Environmental legal compliance audits,
Waste management licences, Water use licences, and Baseline risk assessments.
b) Description of the property.
Farm Name: Portion 1 of the farm Elandskuil 378 KQ
Portion 1 of the farm Middellaagte 382 KQ
Portion 8 of the farm Roodedam 368 KQ
Remaining extent of the farm Moddergat 389 KQ
Portion 6 of the farm Zwartkop 369 KQ
Portion 12 of the farm Zwartkop 369 KQ
Portion 18 of the farm Zwartkop 369 KQ
Portion 21 of the farm Zwartkop
Application area (Ha) 136.392122 Ha
Magisterial district: Thabazimbi Magisterial District
Distance and direction from nearest town
The site is located approximately 18 km north of Northam and 30 km north-east from the town of Thabazimbi, in Limpopo Province
21 digit Surveyor General Code for each farm portion
T0KQ00000000038200001
T0KQ00000000038900000
T0KQ00000000037800001
T0KQ00000000036800008
T0KQ00000000036900006
T0KQ00000000036900012
T0KQ00000000036900018
T0KQ00000000036900021
T0KQ00000000036900026
c) Locality map
(Show nearest town, scale not smaller than 1:250000).
d) Description of the scope of the proposed overall activity.
Provide a plan drawn to a scale acceptable to the competent authority but not less than 1: 10 000 that shows the location, and area (hectares) of all the aforesaid main and listed activities, and infrastructure to be placed on site
i) Listed and specified activities
NAME OF ACTIVITY
(E.g. For prospecting - drill site, site camp, ablution facility, accommodation, equipment storage, sample storage, site office, access route etc…etc…etcE.g. for mining,- excavations, blasting, stockpiles, discard dumps or dams, Loading, hauling and transport, Water supply dams and boreholes, accommodation, offices, ablution, stores, workshops, processing plant, storm water control, berms, roads, pipelines, power lines, conveyors, etc…etc…etc.)
Aerial extent of the Activity
Ha or m²
LISTEDACTIVITY
(Mark with an X where applicable or affected).
APPLICABLE LISTING NOTICE
(GNR 544, GNR 545 or GNR 546)
WASTE MANAGEMENT AUTHORISATION
(Indicate whether an authorisation is required in terms of the Waste Management Act).
(Mark with an X)
Waste rock dump 1A 2.476 Ha footprint
4 (7 and 10)
GNR 921 X
Waste rock dump 1B 1.691 Ha footprint
4 (7 and 10)
GNR 921 X
Waste rock dump 2A 5.569 Ha footprint
4 (7 and 10)
GNR 921 X
Waste rock dump 2B 4.716 Ha footprint
4 (7 and 10)
GNR 921 X
Waste rock dump 2C 4.516 Ha footprint
4 (7 and 10)
GNR 921 X
Waste rock dump 3 4.190254 Ha footprint
4 (7 and 10)
GNR 921 X
Waste rock dump 4 3.345251 Ha footprint
4 (7 and 10)
GNR 921 X
Waste rock dump 5 2.458895 Ha footprint
4 (7 and 10)
GNR 921 X
Waste rock dump 6 3.983046 Ha footprint
4 (7 and 10)
GNR 921 X
Waste rock dump 7 6.607745 Ha footprint
4 (7 and 10)
GNR 921 X
Waste rock dump 8 2.795408 Ha footprint
4 (7 and 10)
GNR 921 X
Waste rock dump 9 4.441855 Ha footprint
4 (7 and 10)
GNR 921 X
Waste rock dump 10 3.660754 Ha footprint
4 (7 and 10)
GNR 921 X
Waste rock dump 11 3.807914 Ha footprint
4 (7 and 10)
GNR 921 X
Waste rock dump 12 2.5 Ha footprint
4 (7 and 10)
GNR 921 X
Waste rock dump 13 4.7 Ha footprint
4 (7 and 10)
GNR 921 X
Waste rock dump 14 0.633 Ha footprint
4 (7 and 10)
GNR 921 X
Waste rock dump 15 7.4 Ha footprint
4 (7 and 10)
GNR 921 X
Middellaagte tailings storage facility 1
60 Ha footprint
4 (7 and 10)
GNR 921 X
Moddergat Tailings storage facility
13.2 Ha footprint
4 (7 and 10)
GNR 921 X
ii) Description of the activities to be undertaken
(Describe Methodology or technology to be employed, including the type of commodity to be mined and for a linear activity, a description of the route of the activity)
Cronimet Chrome Mining SA (Pty) Ltd, a diversified commodity group, contributing
significantly in the sustainable development of South Africa`s economy through mining, is a
holder of a Mining Right for its existing Thaba Cronimet Chrome Mine granted in terms of
section 23 of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act, 2002 (Act No. 28 of
2002) (MPRDA). The right involves exploitation of Cr and PGMs contained in the LG6
(including LG6A), LG4-high Cr to Fe ratio) (Lower Groups), MG2 and MG3 (Middle Groups)
of the Critical Zone in the Western Bushveld Igneous Complex using both opencast and
conventional underground mining method on portions of the farms Elandskuil 378 KQ,
Middellaagte 382 KQ, Moddergat 389 KQ, Roodedam 368 KQ, Schildpadness 385 KQ, and
Zwartkop 369 KQ, located within the Magisterial District of Thabazimbi, Limpopo Province.
Current mining activities at Thaba Cronimet Chrome Mine (Thaba Mine) include ML1 and
ML2 opencast pits, tailings storage facility (TSF), return water dams (RWDs), and Cr
processing plant located on the farms Middellaagte 382 KQ and Elandskuil 378 KQ, with
metallurgical chrome concentration as primary product at 40 000 tonnes per month (t/m).
The Thaba Mine plans to increase production through the expansion of the opencast mining
operations and underground mining areas. Expansion will cover an area of approximately
2129 hectares in extent and will include development of additional Cr and PGMs processing
plant on both the remaining extent of the farm Moddergat 389 KQ and portion 1 of the farm
Middellaagte 382 KQ. This expansion requires additional support infrastructure to be
constructed, which includes an expansion of an existing tailings storage facility (TSF) and
development of new TSF as well as waste rock dump (WRD) sites.
Mining will involve pre-stripping of vegetation to clear the pit area, followed by the removal of
topsoil and waste rock material to expose the ore. Production for both the opencast and
underground mining operations is planned at 1 320 000 t/annum and 900 000 t/annum over a
27 years LoM. The underground mining areas have an estimated combined chromite ore
mineable reserves of approximately 25 509 132 tons, with an estimated saleable product at
19 131 849 tons.
The RoM will be processed to produce metallurgical concentrate, chemical concentrate, and
foundry sand. Final tailings from the processing will be pumped to a tailings thickener. The
overflow from the thickener will gravitate to a process tank whilst underflow will be pumped to
a TSF.
e) Policy and Legislative Context
APPLICABLE LEGISLATION AND GUIDELINES USED TO COMPILE THE REPORT
(A description of the policy and legislative context within which the development is proposed including an identification of all legislation, policies, plans, guidelines, spatial tools, municipal development planning frameworks and instruments that are applicable to this activity and are to be considered in the assessment process);
REFERENCE WHERE APPLIED
(i.e. Where in this document has it been explained how the development complies with and responds to the legislation and policy context)
HOW DOES THIS DEVELOPMENT COMPLY WITH AND RESPOND TO THE POLICY AND LEGISLATIVE CONTEXT(E.g In terms of the National Water Act:-Water Use Liscence has/has not been applied for).
National Environmental Management: Waste Act, 2008 (Act No. 59 of 2008): Government Notice 921 of Gazette No. 37083) (November 2013)
Regulation 4 of NEMWA, 2008 (Act No 59 of 2008): GN 921 of November 2013
Waste Management Licence Application has been lodged with the Department of Mineral Resources (DMR) Limpopo Regional Office
National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998): Environmental Impact Regulation (2014)
Section 23 of the NEMA, 1998 (Act No. 107) of 1998): EIR (2014): Government Notice 982 of Gazette No.38282
Waste Management Licence has been applied and will follow the scoping and environmental impact process
Mineral Petroleum Development Resources Act, 2002 (Act No. 28 of 2002)
Section 22 and 39 of the MPRDA, 2002 (Act No. 28 of 2002)
Thaba Cronimet Chrome Mine is the holder of the Mining Right for the current mining operations. An application for amendment of the Mining Right has been lodged with the DMR Limpopo Regional Office
National Water Act, 1998 (Act No. 36 of 1998)
Section 21 and 40 of the NWA, 1998 (Act No. 36 of 1998)
An application for Water Use Licence has been lodged with the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) North West Regional Office
National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act No. 10 of 2004) (NEMBA)
Section 54 of NEMBA, 2004 (Act. No. 10 of 2004)
Waste Management Licence has been applied and will follow the scoping and environmental impact processwhich involves compilation of the environmental management programme
National Heritage Resources Act, 1999 (Act No. 25 of 1999) (NHRA)
Section 38 (8) of NHRA, 1999
Statutory comments from the South Africa Heritage Resources Agency has been obtained. Furthermore, heritage/ archaeological study was compiled for Thaba Cronimet Chrome Mine.
f) Need and desirability of the proposed activities.
(Motivate the need and desirability of the proposed development including the need and desirability of the activity in the context of the preferred location).
The needs and desirability of the proposed additional mining and processing activities has
taken into consideration the principles of NEMA, the sustainable development objectives,
programmes and broader community needs within the NDP, the Thabazimbi IDP
(2013/2014) and the 2008 Spatial Development Framework (SDF). While the importance of
job creation and economic growth for South Africa cannot be denied, the Constitution calls
for justifiable economic development. The specific needs of the broader community are to be
considered together with the opportunity, costs and consequences of the proposed activities
in order to determine whether or not the development will be socially, economically and
environmentally sustainable.
g) Motivation for the preferred development footprint within the approved site including a full description of the process followed to reach the proposed development footprint within the approved site. NB!! – This section is about the determination of
the specific site layout and the location of infrastructure and activities on site, having taken into consideration the issues raised by interested and affected parties, and the consideration of alternatives to the initially proposed site layout.
(i) Details of the development footprint alternatives considered.
With reference to the site plan provided as Appendix 4 and the location of the individual activities on site, provide details of the alternatives considered with respect to:(a) the property on which or location where it is proposed to undertake the activity;(b) the type of activity to be undertaken;(c) the design or layout of the activity;(d) the technology to be used in the activity;(e) the operational aspects of the activity; and(f) the option of not implementing the activity.
Cronimet Chrome Mining SA (Pty) Ltd is a holder of a Mining Right granted on portion 1 of the
farm Middellaagte 382 KQ, portion 1 of the farm Elandskuil 378 KQ, portion 8 of the farm
Roodedam 368 KQ, remaining extent of the farm Moddergat 389 KQ, and portion 6, 12, 18, 21,
of the farm Zwartkop 369 KQ and portion 1 and the remaining extent of the farm Schildpadnest
385 KQ.
The only preferred site for the proposed extension of TSF is north of the existing TSF and near
the processing plant area on portion 1 of the farm Middellaagte 382 KQ. Furthermore, the
proposed TSF on the remaining extent of the farm Moddergat 389 KQ will also be in close
proximity to the processing plant facility.
The proposed locations of the waste rock dumps were considered to be near the mined-out
areas for ease of backfilling during rehabilitation and closure phase of the mine. The proposed
sites are therefore regarded as the preferred sites and alternative sites were not considered.
Initial consideration for the placement of the plant and TSF was based on availability of land in
close proximity to the proposed mine, Farm Moddergat 389 KQ was identified as the most viable
location as it is adjacent to the proposed Cronimet mining operation and in close proximity to the
portal for the proposed underground mine. Having identified this land and securing its tenure,
Cronimet undertook further investigations to confirm the suitability of this land for placement of
the plant and TSF.
(ii) Details of the Public Participation Process Followed
Describe the process undertaken to consult interested and affected parties including public meetings and one on one consultation. NB the affected parties must be specifically consulted regardless of whether or not they attended public meetings. (Information to be provided to affected parties must include sufficient detail of the intended operation to enable them to assess what impact the activities will have on them or on the use of their land.
The following public engagement and consultation methodology was followed:
Authorities Cosultation Meeting
Pre-application meeting with DWS North West Regional Office at Hartbeespoort Office
on the 17th of December 2014
Pre-application meeting with the Department of Mineral Resources (DMR) Limpopo
Regional Office at Polokwane DMR Offices, on the 31st August 2015
Publishing of newspaper adverts
Die Kwevoel published in english- 25th September 2015
Die Kwevoel published in english and afrikaans- 11th of December 2015
Daily Sun published in english- 25th December 2015
Placement of site notices
Northam Clinic, Northam Shopping Centre, Northam Library, Smash Block Clinic,
Chromite Primary School- 22nd of July 2015
Northam Clinic, Northam Shopping Centre, Northam Library, Smash Block Clinic,
Chromite Primary School, entrance of Smash Block Settlement, and Thabazimbi Library-
23rd of September 2015
Thabazimbi Public Library, Thabazimbi Local Municipality, Thabazimbi Community Hall,
and at Thaba Cronimet Chrome Mine- 25th of September 2015
Public and Focus Group Meeting
Focus group meeting with Sebilong Community Property Association (CPA) on the 28 th
of January 2016 at Leadwood Lodge, Thabazimbi;
Focus group meeting with Mr. Danie Koekemoer on the 21st of January 2016 at Thaba
Cronimet Chrome Mine, Thabazimbi
Focus group meeting with Mr. Cornelius Monene on th 21st of January 2016 at Mawala
Lodge, Northam
Public consultation meeting wih the general public on the 14 th of January 2016 at
Merensky Lodge, near Northam
Consultation Letters
Registered letters were sent to the following interested and affected parties:
Mr. Danie Koekemoer- portion 1 of the farm Zwartkop 369 KQ
Mr. and Mrs. Moloko- portion 8 of the farm Roodedam 368 KQ
Rusternburg Platinum Mines Ltd- portion 1 of the farm Elandskuil 378 KQ,
portion 17 of the farm Zwartkop 369 KQ, and portion 0 of the farm Middellaagte
382 KQ
Sebilong Community Property Association (CPA)- portion 26 and 28 of the farm
Zwartkop 369 KQ
Department of Mineral Resources (DMR) Limpopo Regional Office
Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS)
Limpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment, and Tourism
(LEDET)
Department of Land Affairs (Official: Melton Tshililo)
Department of Environmental Affairs
Thabazimbi Department of Agriculture (Official: Mabel Makibelo)
Thabazimbi Ward 3 Councillor (representative: Stephen Lerumo)
(iii) Summary of Issues raised by Interested and Affected Parties
Interested and Affected Parties DateCommentsReceived
Issues raised EAPs response to issues as mandated by the applicant
AFFECTED PARTIES
Landowner/s
Mr. Danie Koekemoer (Property
owner for portion 1 of the farm
Middellaagte 382 KQ)
X 21 January 2016 A Landowner consultation meeting was held
with Danie Koekemoer where he indicated that
his email address had changed since end
October and supplied us with a new one.
Noted.
DK asked whether an unnamed stream
forming a tributary of the Bierspruit will also be
mined and how that is possible.
The wetland specialist have revised the
wetland assessment report and have
classified the watercourse on portion 1 of
the farm Middellaagte 382 KQ as a stream
(riparian zone) forming a tributary of the
Bierspruit.
DK was concerned with the terms of
compensation and whether the area to be
mined falls under his current agreement with
CCMSA.
CCMSA will discuss with DK
Rustenburg Platinum Mines Ltd
(Property owner of portion 1 of
the farm Elandskuil 378 KQ,
portion 0 of the farm
Middellaagte 382 KQ, and
portion 17 of the farm Zwartkop
369 KQ)
X
14 January 2014 Ms. Boipuso Semenya (an Environmental
Officer at Tumela Mine) was concerned with
why the National Water Act (Act 36 of 1996)
was not included in the Legislative Framework
guiding the WMLA and EIA Processes.
An Integrated Water Use Licence
Application (IWULA) for the planned mine
expansion of the operations at Thaba
Cronimet Chrome Mine has been lodged
with the Department of Water and
Sanitation (DWS) North West Regional
Office.The National Water Act, 1998 (Act
No. 36 of 1998) formed part of the
legislative frameworks for the waste
management licence processes. Thus, both
the waste rock and tailings stockpiles have
been included in the IWULA as section
21(g) water use activities.
Mr Philly Mofomme, an Environmental Officer Dust suppression at Thaba Cronimet
for Tumela Mine, wanted to find out if any
action plan regarding dust and water quality
monitoring was in place.
Chrome Mine will be carried out and has
been included in the IWULA as section
21(g) water use activity requiring
authorisation. Furthermore, water quality
monitoring plan has been included in the
Integrated Water and Waste Management
Plan technical report (together with the
mine action plan) submitted to the DWS.
Kerneck Jens (KJ), the chief land surveyor of
the mine expressed concern regarding the
different plan shown at the public meeting to
the one in the document circulated. He further
stated that correct co-ordinates would be
required to give proper comments as to the
impact of the proposed project on Amandelbut
mine.
A KMZ file was sent to the stakeholder
indicating the correct and updated sites for
the proposed Tailings Storage Facility and
waste rock dump sites.
KJ mentioned that the proposed TSF
expansion on portion 1 of the farm
Middellaagte 382 KQ might have a significant
impact on future planned project for
Amandelbult Mine near portion 1 of the farm
Middellaagte 382 KQ
It was indicated that the two mines should
share plans of the proposed activities in
order to avoid infringement of one`s
activities by the other.
KJ was also interested in finding out if the open
pits will remain or they will be backfilled with
the waste rock?
Once all chrome and PGMs reserves have
been exploited, the mined-out areas will be
backfilled and then revegetated.
KJ asked what rehabilitation measures will be
implemented at the TSF during mine closure.
The TSF at Thaba Cronimet Chrome Mine
will be revegetated during the
decommissioning phase of the mine.
21 January 2016 A focus group consultation meeting was held
with Anglo Tumela Mine where Nishi
Haripursad expressed concerns regarding the
KMZ files sent to them and requested to be
provided with shapefiles
Headwaters will provide updated KMZ files
and possibly shapefiles showing the
proposed waste rock and tailings stockpiles
01 February 2016
(Nishi Haripursad)
NH sent an e-mail to submit further comments
on the proposed project on behalf of Anglo
Tumela Mine, requesting for the location of the
all return water dams as they were not shown
in the draft environmental scoping report.
Headwaters will provide NH with the
positions or localities of the return water
dams
NH queried why the Waste Listed Activities
Category B, No 1, Storage of Waste has not
been included?
Waste rock and tailings stockpiles at Thaba
Cronimet Chrome Mine does not fall within
the ambit of waste listed activity No. 1 of
Category B
NH highlighted that there are new tailings
facilities that would require return water dams
yet this was not listed in the table on page 18
of the Draft Scoping Report.
CCMSA planned expansion of the
operations will also involve expansion of the
TSF located on portion 1 of the
Middellaagte 382 KQ and a new TSF
located on the remaining extent of the farm
Moddergat 389 KQ
NH requested that the rainfall trend be updated
as the data analysis beyond 2007 would
provide a more representative view of rainfall
trends.
Noted.
Sebilong Community Property
Association (CPA) (Property
owner for portion 26 and 28 of
the farm Zwartkop 369 KQ)
28 January 2016
Hennie Venter (HV) requested a copy of the
specialist reports and queried whether
Sebilong was on their Interested and Affected
Parties database. NZ indicated that Sebilong
would be included on the database.
Sebilong CPA has been included in the
interested and affected registration
database. Natalie Smith from Worley
Parsons has provided HV with the
requested specialist reports.
.
ER required clarity on why the bulk sampling
pits on Zwartkop were not licensed in terms of
the WUL.
Mandla from Headwaters indicated that the
pits did not require authorisation in terms of
the National Water Act, Act 36 of 1998.
ER queried why the Waste Management
License does not include the bulk sampling
areas on Zwartkop
Waste activities which took place prior to
the promulgation of the Regulations
pertaining to Waste listed activities did not
need to be licensed. Future /proposed
activities are subjected to licensing
conditions but more clarity to be obtained
from CCMSA.
SM indicated that the Sebilong CPA could not
fully engage with CCMSA or the appointed
consultants on the EIA, Waste and Water
licences until such a time that the lease
agreement and all other issues are addressed
in terms of equity and benefit of the
community.
CCMSA will engage with Sebilong CPA
ER asked whether CCMSA has applied for
closure on prospecting areas/bulk sampling.
These areas have been included in the
liability estimate and rehabilitation plan for
the mine closure
MT stated that CCMSA did not consult with the
Sebilong CPA when they did the bulk
sampling, they exploited the land for money
and didn’t undertaken required rehabilitation.
MT has requested meetings with the directors
of CCMSA. HV will provide a list of the
directors and persons from CCMSA that the
Sebilong CPA wish to engage with.
Information has been relayed to CCMSA for
the relevant meetings to be scheduled
SM indicated that the Sebilong CPA will
continue to object against all authorisation
processes until such a time that the lease
agreement and all other issues pertaining to
the equity and benefit of the community are
resolved
Has been relayed to CCMSA
HV has requested the following documentation
from CCMSA:
• Prospecting work programme and
plans (2008-2010);
• All DMR annual reports;
• Mine work programme.
Noted. Has been relayed to CCMSA
ER queried why the SLP has not been revised
as the five year validity period has expired.
The Sebilong CPA indicated that they have not
been consulted in this regard.
Has beenrelayed to CCMSA
ER stated that the bulk sampling was wrong
and the Sebilong CPA will push for withdrawal
of the rights as no lease agreement in place,
payment has not been made, the area has not
been rehabilitated and two children have
drowned. FT indicated that he will revert to the
MEC to stop the granting of licenses. SM
indicated that the last communication was
received on the 1 December 2015 in terms of
Has been relayed to CCMSA
the lease agreement
HV indicated that the Sebilong would like to
meet with the board of CCMSA. HV will
distribute an e-mail indicating who they would
like to attend the meeting with them. There
was no need for service providers to attend
this meeting as the issues are between
CCMSA and Sebilong CPA. SM indicated that
they will continue to object until CCMSA
engage with them and address their concerns.
Noted. Has been relayed to CCMSA.
Baphalane Ba Mantserre
Community Development Trust
(Represented by Mr. Cornelius
Monene) (Property owners for
portion 1 and the remaining
extent of the farm
Schildpadnest 385 KQ)
21 January 2016 Mr. Cornelius Monene asked when will
CCMSA commence operations for the planned
expansion at Thaba Cronimet Chrome Mine
and whether Schildpadnest is included in the
life of the mine
The proposed mine expansion at Thaba
Cronimet Chrome Mine will involve
additional opencast pits and underground
mining areas. The southern underground
mining areas will be located on portion 1
and the remaining extent of the farm
Schildpadnest. Operationa phase for the
underground mining areas is planned for
2026.
CM was interested in knowing whether another
EIA process will be conducted when CCMSA
starts mining on the farm.
Worley Parsons is currently undertaking the
EIA for the planned expansion of the
operation
CM highlighted that there is a heritage site on
the farm.
Noted. All identified sites for heritage or
cultural resources will be fenced-off.
CM expressed concern relating to the informal Only a shaft will be developed on the farm
shacks on the farm and whether locals will be
affected by blasting?
Schildpadnest 385 KQ. Blasting will be
carried out for the proposed opencast pits
located on portions of the farms Zwartkop
369 KQ, Middellaagte 382 KQ, Roodedam
368 KQ and Elandskuil 378 KQ. No blasting
will take place on the farm Schildpadnest
385 KQ.
CM was concerned with whether the land will
be suitable for development (e.g. houses) after
mining activities at site
The land will be useable after rehabilitation
and closure.
Organs of state (Responsible for infrastructure that may beaffected Roads Department,Eskom, Telkom, DWA e
X
OTHER AFFECTED PARTIES
Ward 3 Councillor (Stephen Lerumo) 25 September 2015 Correspondence was provided by Sazi
Environmental notifying the councillor of the
integrated waste management and water use
licence application for the proposed
construction of Thaba Cronimet Chrome Mine
additional tailings storage facility and waste
disposal
SL indicated that they are aware of the project
and public participation process however the
community is not happy because they get
invited to partake in public participation
processes and attend meetings but their issues
are never taken into consideration or
addressed accordingly especially that of
employing locals.
He further advised that the community is not
pleased with this and have threatened to
boycott the meetings or demonstrate at the
mine because when construction commences,
the mine hires people from far off places and
disregards locals.
Ward 5 Councillor (Mr. S. Manala) 25 September 2015 Notification of the integrated waste
management and water use licence application
for the proposed construction of Thaba
Cronimet Chrome Mine additional tailings
storage facility and waste disposal was given.
SM acknowledged receipt and urged us to
invite them when a meeting takes place as
they are quite interested in the socio-economic
aspects of the project.
Noted.
(iv) The Environmental attributes associated with the development footprint alternatives. (The environmental attributes described must include socio-economic,
social, heritage, cultural, geographical, physical and biological aspects)
(1) Baseline Environment
(a) Type of environment affected by the proposed activity.(its current geographical, physical, biological, socio- economic, and cultural
character).
ClimateThe project area consists of summer rainfall with dry winters. Effectively three seasons, namely
a cool dry season from May to mid-August, a hot dry season from mid-August to about October
and a hot wet season from about November to April. Mean Annual Precipitation (MAP) is about
628.10 mm.
Average monthly maximum temperatures are 32°C in January and 23°C (see figure below) in
July. Average monthly minimum for the area ranges from 19.5°C in January to 2.2°C in July.
Mean monthly maximum and minimum temperatures is about 31.3 °C and 3.1°C for November
and June, respectively (Mucina and Rutherford, 2006).
Historical temperature records obtained from the South African Weather Station number
05876972, located 3 km south-west of Thabazimbi was used to compute the average minimum
and maximum monthly temperatures for the area. The average minimum and maximum monthly
temperatures were calculated from the year 1983-2009 (26 years).
Table 3—2: Average Maximum and Minimum Monthly Temperatures
MonthAverage Maximum
TemperatureAverage Minimum
Temperature
Jan 32 19.5
Feb 31.6 18.9
Mar 30.2 17.2
Apr 28.1 12.6
May 25.6 6.5
Jun 23 3.1
Jul 23 2.2
Aug 26.2 6.3
Sep 29.7 12.5
Oct 31.4 16.7
Nov 31.3 18
Dec 31.6 18.9
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
Average Monthly Temperature (°C)Average Maximum Temperature Average Minimum Temperature
Month
Aver
age
Tem
pera
ture
(°C)
Figure 3-1: Average Maximum and Minimum Monthly Temperatures (°C)
Regional ClimateThe proposed project area lies within the summer rainfall region of South Africa and thus
approximately 90 percent of the Mean Annual Precipitation (MAP) occurs within the six month
period between October and March, with only five percent of the MAP occurring between April
and September.
Historical rainfall records obtained from the South African Weather Station number 05876972,
was used to compute the mean annual precipitation. This meteorogical gauging station is
located 16 km north-east from the site (portion 1 of the farm Middellaagte 382 KQ) and 3 km
south-west of Thabazimbi, on the farm Wachteenbietjesdraii 350 KQ.
The average monthly rainfall is calculated from the year 1960-2009 (49 years).The vicinity of
Thaba Mine receives a mean annual precipitation of approximately 628.1 mm as shown in the
tabulation below.
The figure below shows average rainfall depth (mm) for the vicinity of the project area. The
monthly rainfall trend is in line with the seasonal rainfall distribution with the summer months
having the highest rainfall intensity (89.4-37.3 mm).
Table 3—3: Average Monthly Rainfall Depth (mm)
Month Mean Monthly Rainfall (mm)
Jan 124.9
Feb 94.9
Mar 77
Apr 37.3
May 10.8
Jun 6.8
Jul 1.5
Aug 3.9
Sep 12.8
Oct 48.7
Nov 89.4
Dec 120.1
Total 628.1
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
Average Rainfall Depth (mm)
Mean Monthly Rainfall (mm)
Month
Aver
age
Rain
fall
(mm
)
Figure 3-2: Average Monthly Rainfall Depth (mm)
EvaporationAccording to the Final Environmental Impact Report (Worley Parsons, 2015), the mean annual
potential evaporation for Quaternary Catchments A24C and A24F is approximately 1840 mm
per annum. This value is in line with mean annual evaporation as measured from an S-pan by
Water Research Commission (WRC, 2005), which is in the range of 1800-2000 mm/yr.
Topography The majority of the area is characterised by undulating to flat plains with a high of 980 m above
mean sea level (mamsl) to the South West and 960 mamsl to the East, with the lowest point
being the Bierspruit River. This means that the site is generally flat with a slight gradient
towards the Crocodile River. One small hill on the farm Zwartkop 369 KQ is 1058.5 mamsl in
height.The area is drained to the north by the Bierspruit River and its associated tributaries.
GeologyThe project area is underlain by the Rustenburg Layered Suite Geological Formation of the
Bushveld Complex (Vaalian era)
The Bushveld Complex The igneous layering at Rustenburg area is north-north striking with an average dip of
approximately 30°. The UG2 reef at Lebowa occurs as a chromitite layer with an average
thickness of approximately 75 cm. Three leader chromitite layers also occur above the main
chromitite. The Bushveld Complex is unique because of its size, the persistence and regularity
of the layering of the mafic and ultramafic rocks, and the importance of the economic minerals it
contains. It is the most important depository of platinum group elements (PGEs) in the world,
hosting some 85% of the world’s resources, but is also one of the world’s foremost sources of
nickel, vanadium and chromite. The mafic portion of the Bushveld Complex has been dated at
2095Ma and consists of a 7 to 9km thickness of magmatic rocks exposed in four lobes with a
total surface area covering 65 000km².
The magmatic event that gave rise to the Bushveld Complex commenced with the extrusion of
large volumes of basaltic (Dullstroom) and felsic (Rooiberg) magmas at the end of Transvaal
sedimentation. This was subsequently intruded by pre-Bushveld sills, which collectively attain a
thickness of 2 km. This event was followed closely by the 2095 Ma main mafic sequence and,
ultimately by the intrusion of the various Bushveld granites. The mafic magmas spread upward
and laterally along shallow-angled fractures to produce the four main lobes.
The Bushveld Complex is described as clover-shaped, consisting of four lobes. The two
bracket-like Western and Eastern Lobes constitute the “main” Complex, which has an elliptical
form, measuring 370km in an east-west direction and 365km in a northwest-southeast direction.
The four lobes are:
The Western Lobe extends from near Pretoria westward to Rustenburg, northwards
around the Pilanesberg Complex and northwards to Thabazimbi;
The Southern Lobe is largely covered by the Karoo-age coal-bearing sediments around
Witbank, Middelburg and Bethal;
The Eastern Lobe extends northwards through the eastern Mpumalanga from near
Middelburg in the south to the east of Mokopane in the north; and
The Northern Lobe extends northwards from Mokopane.
A layered sequence of mafic and ultramafic rocks known as the Rustenburg Layered Suite
occurs within each of the four lobes. The general dip of the layering is towards the centre of
each lobe at angles varying between 10° and 25°. The Rustenburg Layered Suite comprises
five zones, from the base of the succession upwards – the Marginal, Lower, Critical, Main and
Upper Zones. Individual layers or groups of layers can be traced laterally for distances
exceeding 100km. The PGEs and chromium are the most important economic elements in the
Rustenburg Layered Suite. The largest deposits of chromite in the world occur in the Critical
Zone of the Eastern and Western Lobes. Those deposits in the lower part of the Critical Zone
are prefixed “LG chromitites” whereas those of the upper Critical Zone are prefixed “UG
chromitites”. The UG2 Chromitite is particularly significant for its PGE content.
Groundwater
Aquifer characterisation
According to the Geohydrological investigation assessment conducted by JMA Consulting (July,
2015), Thaba Mine is underlain by highly to slightly weathered shallow Gabbro and Norite
Aquifer and Deeper (fresh) fractured Gabbro and Norite aquifer. The shallow weathered aquifer
occurs from the surface to a depth of approximately 24 m below the earth`s surface, while the
deeper fractured aquifer lies below 24 m. However, average groundwater depth at the site is
about 19 m below ground. Thus, approximately less than 5 m of the weathered Norite and
Gabbro aquifer is saturated.
In addition, transmissivity tests were performed for the shallow weathered aquifer and the
values range between 1- 5 m2/day. According to the available information and data, the overall
borehole yielding capacity within the shallow aquifer is approximately 2 ℓ/s (see table below).
Table 3—4: Aquifer Yielding CapacityBorehole Borehole Depth Borehole Yield Property Details
CGW-4 28 m 2 ℓ/s @23-24 m Zwartkop 369 KQ
CGW-5 28 m 2 ℓ/s @11-13 m Zwartkop 369 KQ
Aquifer classification was carried out based on the methodology as shown in the tabulation
below by Roger Parsons in A South African Aquifer System Management Classification (1995).
According to this system, the shallow weathered Gabbro and Norite aquifer is classified as a
Minor Aquifer.
Two north-south striking faults zones occurs in the northern part of the site on the farm
Middellaagte 382 KQ. These geological features form preferential pathways for groundwater
flow and recharge of the deeper fresh fractured Gabbro and Norite aquifer. Boreholes yield test
have not been performed within these formations. However, the Geohydrological investigation
suggest that water yielding capacity decreases dramatically in depth due to high pressure
conditions.
Table3—5: Aquifer Classification System (Parsons, 1995)
Figure 3-3: Fault Zones within the study areaWater Management AreaThe proposed project falls within the Crocodile (West) and Marico water management area
(WMA). The Crocodile (West) and Marico Water Management Area lies primarily within the
North West Province with parts of it in the northern region of Gauteng and the south-western
periphery of the Limpopo Province. The Crocodile and Marico rivers are the two main rivers in
this WMA, which at their confluence forms the Limpopo River that flows eastwards to the Indian
Ocean.
The Crocodile (West) and Marico WMA comprises of Sub-WMA`s, that is, the Lower Crocodile,
Apies/Pienaars, Elands, Upper Crocodile, Upper Molopo, and Marico. Cronimet Thaba Chrome
Mine is located within the Lower Sub-WMA. The Lower Crocodile River has two large
tributaries, namely the Sand River and the Bierspruit which join the Crocodile River west of the
town of Thabazimbi
More than half of the total water use in the Crocodile (West) and Marico WMA comprises urban,
industrial and mining use, approximately a third is used by irrigation and the remainder of the
water requirements is for rural water supplies and power generation.
In order to meet the current demand, much of the water in the WMA is being imported mainly
from the Vaal River system for domestic and industrial use purposes. Rand Water, which is the
largest water board in South Africa, together with Magalies Water and Botshelo Water (the
North West Water Supply Authority), are the three water boards that supply water in this WMA.
The natural mean annual runoff (MAR) of the down the Crocodile River, while the Marico
catchment contributes 20 % and the Upper Crocodile (West) and Marico WMA is 855 million
m3/yr. Approximately 75 % of the total surface runoff from the WMA flows Molopo catchment 5
%.
Waste ClassificationGeochemical investigations of the tailing waste, overburden material, and waste rock material at
Thaba Cronimet Chrome Mine was undertaken by Hydro Science (May, 2015) and
Environmental Resources Management (ERM) (May, 2015). The investigation was carried out
in terms of the National Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) Regulation 635- National
norms and standards for assessment of waste for landfill disposal, and Regulation 636-
National norms and standards for disposal of waste to landfill.
The objective of the assessment was to classify the residue waste. Waste classification will
make provision for the barrier lining required for the residue stockpiles.
A total of 15 samples of the waste rock material, 2 samples of the tailing waste, and 1 sample of
the overburden material were collected from the existing tailings storage facility, overburden
dump and the waste rock dump. The samples were analysed using the acid-base accounting
(ABA) and net-acid generation (NAG) techniques to determine the potential to generate acid
rock drainage.
From the results of analysis in the tabulation below, all samples of the tailing waste, overburden
and waste rock material falls within leachable concentration threshold zero (mg/ℓ) (LCT0),
except for Cr (total) for the waste rock sample Cron 3a with an average concentration of
approximately 0.181 mg/ℓ, which in this case falls within leachable concentration threshold 1
limit.
However, the total concentration for all the waste residue stockpiles are within the total
concentration threshold zero (mg/kg) (TCT0), except for the following chemical parameters:
Barium, Total Chromium, Manganese, Nickel, and Vanadium.
Total Chromium for the tailings sample 1 (fine tailing sample) was recorded at a maximum total
concentration threshold 69 150 mg/kg, with Vanadium at 361 mg/kg (fine tailings sample) and
326 mg/kg (coarse tailings sample).
Table 3—6: Total concentration of the residue stockpiles (mg/kg)
Variables Symbol LOD TCT0 TCT1 TCT2 Tailings WasteOverburden
Waste Waste Rock Material
Sample 1: fine slimes
Sample 2: course tailings
Sample 3: Overburden Cron 1a Cron 2a Cron 3a Cron 4b Cron 6a
pH 8.5 8.6 8.7 Aluminium Al 0.004 NT NT NT 2735 1069 2885 Arsenic As 0.02 5.8 500 2000 <0.1 <1 <1 <4 <4 <4 <4 <4Boron B 1 150 15000 60000 5.8 <0.8 <0.8 <10 <10 <10 <10 <10Barium Ba 0.1 62.5 6250 25000 110 34 69 40.4 96.8 55.2 73.6 79.2Calcium Ca 5 NT NT NT 9709 10802 13087 Cadmium Cd 0.1 7.5 260 1040 0.82 0.12 1.6 <2 <2 <2 12.8 11.2Cobalt Co 0.1 50 5000 20000 77 52 41 <10 14.8 46.4 154.4 143.2Chromium total Cr tot 0.3
46000 800000 NT 69150 41685 1500 229.6 560 2072 480 302.8
Chromium VI Cr VI 0.01 6.5 500 2000 2.4 3.8 3.0 <5 <5 <5 <5 <5Copper Cu 0.2 16 19500 78000 40 9.8 8.3 <10 <10 48.4 <10 <10Iron Fe 0.1 NT NT NT 77540 48595 44560 Mercury Hg 0.1 0.93 160 640 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.4 <0.4 <0.4 <0.4 <0.4Manganese Mn 0.1 1000 25000 100000 1084 494 785 116.8 484 904 1704 1568Magnesium Mg 1 NT NT NT 23510 10802 13087 Molybdenum Mo 0.1 40 1000 4000 <0.1 0.67 1.6 <10 <10 <10 <10 <10Sodium Na 2 NT NT NT 1354 855 6400 Nickel Ni 0.3 91 10600 42400 353 182 228 40.4 102 448 828 780Lead Pb 1 20 1900 7600 <1.0 <1.0 1.9 <8 <8 <8 <8 <8Antimony Sb 1 10 75 300 <1.0 <1.0 <1.0 9.2 <4 8.8 16.4 13.2Selenium Se 3 10 50 200 <3.0 <3.0 <3.0 <8 <8 <8 <8 <8Vanadium V 0.2 150 2680 10720 361 326 73 12 <10 <10 <10 14.8Zinc Zn 0.5 240 160000 640000 104 73 28 10 25.6 31.6 101.6 97.6
Variables Symbol LOD TCT0 TCT1 TCT2 Tailings WasteOverburden
Waste Waste Rock Material
Sample 1: fine slimes
Sample 2: course tailings
Sample 3: Overburden Cron 1a Cron 2a Cron 3a Cron 4b Cron 6a
Chloride Cl NT NT NT 11.2 <10 <10 Sulphate SO₂ NT NT NT <0.01 <0.01 0.01 Nitrate-N NO₃ NT NT NT <0.5 5.0 2.5 Fluoride F 100 10000 40000 <10 <10 <10 94 122 167 137 86.4Cyanide CN 14 10500 42000 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01
Table3—7: Leachable concentration of the residue stockpiles (mg/ℓ)
Variables Symbol LOD LCT0 LCT1 LCT2 LCT3 Tailings WasteOverburden Waste
Waste Rock Material
Sample 1: fine slimes
Sample 2: course slimes
Sample 3: Overburden Cron 1a Cron 2a Cron 3a Cron 4b Cron 6a
pH 8.6 8.5 8.4 Aluminium Al 0.003 NT NT NT NT 0.15 0.13 0.35 Arsenic As 0.02 0.01 0.5 1 4 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01Boron B 0.006 0.5 25 50 200 0.01 <0.006 0.006 0.025 0.025 0.025 0.025 0.025Barium Ba 0.001 0.7 35 70 280 0.16 0.12 0.12 0.025 0.025 0.025 0.025 0.025Calcium Ca 0.05 NT NT NT NT 3.4 3.7 3.5 Cadmium Cd 0.001 0.003 0.15 0.3 1.2 <0.001 0.001 <0.001 <0.003 <0.003 <0.003 <0.003 <0.003Cobalt Co 0.001 0.50 25 50 200 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 0.025 0.025 0.025 0.025 0.025Chromium total Cr tot 0.003 0.1 5 10 40 0.03 0.02 0.008 0.025 0.025 0.181 0.025 0.025Chromium VI Cr VI 0.01 0.05 2.5 5 20 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01Copper Cu 0.002 2.0 100 200 800 0.007 0.004 0.005 <0.025 <0.025 <0.025 <0.025 <0.025Iron Fe 0.001 NT NT NT NT 0.22 0.21 0.16 Mercury Hg 0.001 0.006 0.3 0.6 2.4 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001Manganese Mn 0.001 0.5 25 50 200 0.004 0.003 0.003 <0.025 <0.025 0.137 <0.025 <0.025Magnesium Mg 0.01 NT NT NT NT 5.6 3.1 3.3 Molybdenum Mo 0.001 0.07 3.5 7 28 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.025 <0.025 <0.025 <0.025 <0.025Sodium Na 0.02 NT NT NT NT 7.2 4.2 3.5 Nickel Ni 0.003 0.07 3.5 7 28 <0.003 <0.003 <0.003 <0.025 <0.025 0.034 <0.025 <0.025Lead Pb 1 0.01 0.5 1 4 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.010 <0.010 <0.010 <0.010 <0.010Antimony Sb 1 0.02 1.0 2 8 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.010 <0.010 <0.010 <0.010 <0.010Selenium Se 3 0.01 0.5 1 4 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.010 <0.010 <0.010 <0.010 <0.010Vanadium V 0.002 0.2 10 20 80 0.04 0.03 0.03 <0.025 <0.025 <0.025 <0.025 <0.025Zinc Zn 0.005 5.0 250 500 2000 <0.005 <0.005 <0.005 <0.025 <0.025 <0.025 <0.025 <0.025Chloride Cl 300 15000 30000 120000 4.8 2.2 1.7 <5 <5 <5 <5 <5
Variables Symbol LOD LCT0 LCT1 LCT2 LCT3 Tailings WasteOverburden Waste
Waste Rock Material
Sample 1: fine slimes
Sample 2: course slimes
Sample 3: Overburden Cron 1a Cron 2a Cron 3a Cron 4b Cron 6a
Sulphate SO₂ 250 12500 25000 100000 9.4 5.4 5.2 <5 <5 <5 <5 <5Nitrate-N NO₃ 11 550 1100 4400 1.2 0.1 0.2 <0.2 <0.2 <0.2 <0.2 <0.2Fluoride F 1.5 75 150 600 0.2 0.1 0.2 <0.2 <0.2 <0.2 <0.2 <0.2Cyanide CN 0.07 3.5 7 28 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 <0.05 <0.05
From the tabulation above, the tailings waste, overburden and waste rock samples were all
classified as Type 3 waste, which requires disposal into a Class C containment barrier. The
concentration of the material are effluenced by the geology of the study area, which is the
Bushveld Igneous Complex (BIC) formed during the Vaalian era.
FloraThe Thaba Cronimet Chrome Mine lies within the Savanna biome which is the largest in
Southern Africa. It is characterised by a grassy ground layer and a distinct upper layer of woody
plants (trees and shrubs). The environmental factors delimiting the biome are complex and
include altitude, rainfall, geology and soil types, with rainfall being the major delimiting factor.
Fire and grazing also keep the grassy layer dominant. The classification of the area was the
microphyllous woodland which is part of the Dwaalboom Thornveld vegetation type. The
Dwaalboom Thornveld vegetation type had threatened conservation status, with 14 percent
transformed and six percent statutorily conserved. Vegetation units were identified according to
plant species composition, previous land use soil types and topography. The state of the
vegetation of the proposed mining site varied from being natural to completely degraded
Surface and Ground Water Control and Monitoring
Water resources monitoring will be undertaken in terms of the Department of Water and
Sanitation (DWS) Best Practice Guidelines (BPG) for Water Monitoring Systems (2007). The
objective of monitoring system is to:
Develop environmental and water management plans base on impact monitoring;
Generate baseline data before project implementation;
Assess the impacts on receiving water environment;
Assess compliance with legal requirements.
Internal reporting will include monthly reports to the mine management on the performance
against management commitments and expectation against authorisations and permits.
External reporting requirements will be guided by the permit and licences received to that effect
and the mine commit to comply with these statutory requirements at all times. This will
encompass incident reporting which in terms of the EMS, requires classification of incidents into
three categories (Levels 1, 2 & 3) depending on their severity or potential consequence to the
environment.
Surface Water Monitoring
The major objective of surface water monitoring is to ensure that mining activities have a limited
adverse effect on surface water resources. The broad objective of the surface water monitoring
system is to ensure that the water management systems perform according to specifications, to
act as a pollution early warning system, to check compliance with legal requirements and for
reporting purposes.
Table 6—8: Surface Water Flow Monitoring
Aspect Points FrequencySurface water flows Return water dam Monthly
Sewage return flows Monthly
Slurry to TSF Monthly
Process water to the
processing plant
Monthly
Table 3—9: Surface water monitoring
Variables Points Frequency Coordinates
Water quality ZPR-1- Bierspruit upstream of
operations on portion 18 of the farm
Zwartkop 369 KQ
Monthly E 27° 18’ 14.6”
S 24° 46’ 48.5”
STR-1- Bierspruit downstream of
operations on portion 1 of the farm
Schildpadness 385KQ
Monthly E 27° 18’14.4”
S 24° 47’ 55.1”
MRT-1- Bierspruit downstream of
operations on the remaining extent
of the farm Moddergat 389 KQ
Monthly E 27° 15’ 52.9”
S 24° 51’ 06.1”
ZPR-2 – Unnamed tributary of the
Bierspruit on portion 12 of the farm
Zwartkop 369KQ
Monthly 24° 46’ 01” S27° 19’ 16” E
Process water Return water from the Middellaagte
TSF return water dam
Monthly E 27° 20’ 52.52”
S 24° 45’ 03.03”
Pollution control dam (MLPCD1) Monthly E 27° 20’ 10.02”
S 24° 45’ 53.04”
Variables Points Frequency Coordinates
Pollution control dam (MLPCD2) Monthly E 27° 20’ 24.08”
S 24° 45’ 04.02”
Pollution control dam (ZK1) Monthly E 27° 19’ 41.03”
S 24° 45’ 34.05”
Pollution control dam (ZK2) Monthly E 27° 19’ 41.09”
S 24° 45’ 35.08”
Table 3—10: Surface Water Quality Monitoring Determinants
Water Quality Parameters/Determinants
Unit Timeframes for Measurement
Monthly Quarterly Annually
pH pH scale Electric Conductivity (EC) mS/m Total Dissolved Solid (TDS) mg/l Nitrate (NO3) mg/l Calcium (Ca) mg/l Arsenic (As) mg/l Magnesium (Mg) mg/l Sodium (Na) mg/l Potassium (K) mg/l Iron (Fe) mg/l Manganese (Mn) mg/l Chloride (Cl) mg/l Sulphate (SO4) mg/l Fluoride (F) mg/l Chromium VI (Cr (VI)) mg/l Total Chromium (Cr) mg/l Nickel (Ni) mg/l Vanadium (V) mg/l Cadmium (Cd) mg/l Copper (Cu) mg/l E.Coli cfu/100 ml Faecal Coliforms cfu/100 ml
Laboratory AnalysisAnalysis must be done by a lab that has SANS (South African Bureau of Standards)
accreditation in terms of the Standard Act, 1982 (Act No. 30 of 1982) for all the required water
quality determinants.
Groundwater Monitoring
Groundwater monitoring at Thaba Mine is currently being implemented according to the mine
water quality monitoring programme. The monitoring programme will be updated based on the
recommendations from the Geohydrological assessment report and wetland assessment report.
The main objective of the programme is to ensure that mining activities have a limited adverse
effect on local groundwater resources. The following key aspects will be as part of the
monitoring programme:
Generation of information regarding groundwater quality and quantity;
Determination and quantification of additional impacts as a results of the proposed
mining operation;
Managing the impacts on groundwater at the mine. These include development of
monitoring response protocol. This protocol shall describe the procedures to be followed
in the event pertinent issues arise on groundwater resources;
Prevention of possible further pollution on groundwater resources;
Updating and verification of the groundwater flow model;
Reviewing the mine water balance model and compilation of annual compliance reports.
Table 3—11: Groundwater Monitoring
Aspect Points FrequencyGroundwater quality Boreholes Quarterly
Groundwater levels Boreholes Quarterly
Dewatering flows Opencast workings Once every week
Underground workings Once every week
The tabulation below sets out groundwater quantity and quality monitoring points.
Table 6—12: Groundwater Monitoring Points
Aspect Location Coordinates
BH-1-North-east of
Middellaagte tailings storage
facility
E 27° 21’ 14.44”
S 24° 44’ 49.79”
BH-2- South of Middellaagte
tailings storage facility
E 27° 20’ 59.99”
S 24° 45’ 24.11”
Aspect Location Coordinates
BH-3- North-west of
Middellaagte tailings storage
facility
E 27° 20’ 39.97”
S 24° 44’ 59.56”
BH-4- South-east of
Middellaagte tailings storage
facility
E 27° 21’ 29.16”
S 24° 45’ 14.54”
CGW-1- North-east of the
Moddergat tailings storage
facility
E 27° 15’ 40.54”
S 24° 49’ 20.46”
CGW-2- South-east of the
Moddergat tailings storage
facility
E 27° 16’ 08.80”
S 24° 50’ 06.68”
CGW-3- North-west of the
Moddergat tailings storage
facility
E 27° 14’ 47.22”
S 24° 49’ 59.52”
CGW-4- North of the southern
underground mining areas
and north of ZK3 opencast pit
E 27° 18’ 39.13”
S 24° 46’ 11.14”
CGW-6- South-west of the
underground mining areas
E 27° 16’ 13.98”
S 24° 48’ 18.68”
CGW-8-West of MLPCD2
pollution control dam
E 27° 20’ 26.23”
S 24° 45’ 04.75”
ZP8-North of the southern
underground mining areas on
portion 9 of the farm Zwartkop
369 KQ
E 27° 18’ 08.1”
S 24° 45’ 57.0”
ZP9- North of the southern
underground mining areas on
portion 8 of the farm Zwartkop
369 KQ
E 27° 18’ 08.9”
S 24° 45’ 58.3”
ZP12- North of the southern
underground mining areas on
portion 27 of the farm
E 27° 18’ 06.8”
S 24° 46’ 33.1”
Aspect Location Coordinates
Zwartkop 369 KQ
ZP15- Located within the
Sebilong settlement on
portion 19 of the farm
Zwartkop 369 KQ
E 27° 16’ 36.7”
S 24° 47’ 03.2”
ZP18- Located within the
Sebilong settlement on
portion 28 of the farm
Zwartkop 369 KQ
E 27° 17’ 13.6”
S 24° 46’ 56.5”
According to the Geohydrological assessment undertaken by JMA Consulting (July, 2015),
additional recommended groundwater monitoring boreholes (BH-1, BH-2, BH-3, and BH-4) must
be drilled around the tailings storage facility located on portion 1 of the farm Middellaagte 382
KQ. The tabulation below sets out groundwater quality monitoring determinants.
Table 6—13: Groundwater Quality Monitoring Determinants
Water Quality Parameters/Determinants
Unit Timeframes for Measurement
Monthly Quarterly Annually
pH pH scale Electric Conductivity (EC) mS/m Total Dissolved Solid (TDS) mg/l Nitrate (NO3) mg/l Calcium (Ca) mg/l Arsenic (As) mg/l Magnesium (Mg) mg/l Sodium (Na) mg/l Potassium (K) mg/l Iron (Fe) mg/l Manganese (Mn) mg/l Chlorine (Cl) mg/l Sulphate (SO4) mg/l Fluoride (F) mg/l Chromium VI (Cr) mg/l Total Chromium (Cr) mg/l Nickel (Ni) mg/l Vanadium (V) mg/l Cadmium (Cd) mg/l Copper (Cu) mg/l Faecal Coliforms cfu/100 ml
Water Quality Parameters/Determinants
Unit Timeframes for Measurement
Monthly Quarterly Annually
E.Coli cfu/100 ml
Monitoring ProcedureThe mine water monitoring programme was developed and implemented using the following
guidelines and standards:
DWS, 2007. Best Practice Guideline for Protection of Water Resources in the South
African Mining Industry. G3: Water Monitoring Systems;
DWS, 2003. Quality of Domestic Water Supplies, Volume 2: Sampling Guide;
ISO 5667-3: 2006 Part 1: Guidance on the design of sampling programmes and
sampling techniques;
ISO 5667-3: 2003 Part 3: Guidance on sample preservation and sample handling;
ISO 5667-6: 2005 Part 6: Guidance on sampling of rivers and streams;
ISO 5667-11: 2006 Part 11: Guidance on sampling of groundwater.
Laboratory AnalysisAnalysis must be done by a lab that has SANS (South African Bureau of Standards)
accreditation in terms of the Standard Act, 1982 (Act No. 30 of 1982) for all the required water
quality determinants.
Bio-monitoringThaba Mine project area comprises of the following hydro-geomorphic units (wetland features)
and riparian zones on the central and southern parts of the site.
Unnamed stream forming the tributary of the Bierspruit on portion 1 of the farm
Middellaagte 382 KQ and portion 8 of the farm Roodedam 368 KQ
Channeled valley bottom wetland and the artificial seepage wetland on the farm
Zwartkop 369 KQ, and
Riparian zone draining the artificial seepage wetland on the farm Zwartkop 369 KQ
The flows from the riparian zones (streams) forms a tributary of the Bierspruit. The Bierspruit
forms a tributary of the Crocodile River, 6 km north from the farm Roodedam 368 KQ. This
perennial river straddles portion 18 of the farm Zwartkop 369 KQ and the remaining extent of
the farm Moddergat 389 KQ.
Thaba Mine will conduct bio-monitoring at various terrestrial and aquatic sites to monitor the
ecological health of Thaba mining area. Invertebrates play an integral role in the environment as
biological indicators of ecological integrity. These invertebrates react to disturbances (such as
dust deposition, water abstraction or poor land management) much faster than other biological
or physical components.
Terrestrial habitats should also be included in the bio-monitoring programme. As a minimum the
indicator species, site or aspects of the following will be included in the bio-monitoring
programme:
Water quality;
Aquatic macro-invertebrates;
Sediments
Terrestrial fauna (Avifauna, mammalian, terrestrial entomology, amphibian, and reptilian)
Terrestrial flora;
GIS analysis (Aerial Imagery)
The bio-monitoring proposed in the tabulation below is anticipated to assist in proactively
determining the possible impacts and thus assisting with implementation of management
measures. Data collected during the bio-monitoring programme will be included in a Geographic
Information System (GIS) to effectively identify trends and assist in managing the mine
properties and impacts. The GIS system will incorporate surface and groundwater quality as
well as the water balances for the mine.
Table 3—14: Bio-monitoring PointsVariables Points Frequency Coordinates
River health BSC01-Upstream of the
Bierspruit, on the southern
boundary of the farm Moddergat
389 KQ.
Quarterly or
Seasonal
E 27° 15’ 07.00”
S 24° 52’39.50”
BSC02-Upstream of the
Bierspruit and south-east of the
Moddergat tailings storage
facility.
Quarterly or
Seasonal
E 27° 16’ 29.70”
S 24° 50’ 51.90”
BSC04- Downstream of the
Bierspruit, on portion 18 of the
farm Zwartkop
Quarterly or
Seasonal
E 27° 18’ 20.90”
S 24° 46’ 51.40”
Variables Points Frequency Coordinates
369 KQ
BSC06- Downstream of the
Bierspruit, after discharge from
the tributary of the Bierspruit,
located at the old Zwartkop
Chrome Mine.
Quarterly or
Seasonal
E 27° 18’ 16.00”
S 24° 46’36.60”
MDL01- Located within the
unnamed stream forming a
tributary of the Bierspruit on
portion 1 of the farm
Middellaagte 382 KQ
Quarterly or
Seasonal
E 27° 20’ 31.86”
S 24° 45’ 01.98”
(b) Description of the current land uses.
For most of the mineral lease area, the soils were suited to extensive grazing as they were not
radically disturbed. The areas that have been disturbed by historic mining activities were not
suited to grazing or agriculture as these soils have been degraded significantly due to
disturbance. The land use was changing from grazing to rural dwellings in a large area of the
site and with this change the soil’s quality was also degrading. Low intensity agricultural
activities can be considered for the remaining open areas but the risk of crop failures will be
high if rainfall is erratic and if management is not optimal
Table 1:1 Land Use categories & surface Areas for the Thaba Cronimet Chrome Mine mining lease area
Land use Area (ha) Percentage (%)
Extensive grazing 1618.4 82.6
Irrigated agriculture 6.2 0.3
Informal housing 29.7 1.5
Historic mining impacts 266.4 13.6
Current mining impacts 37.5 1.9
Total 1958.2
The land-use on the different farms in 2009/2010 was as follows:
Farms Zwartkop 369 KQ and Schilpadnest 385 KQ was old mining activities and tribal
land
Middellaagte 382 KQ, Roodedam 368 KQ and Elandskuil 378 KQ was utilised for
livestock farming
FaunaBirds
A survey was conducted on the study site during October 2009 to identify specific bird habitats,
and to compare these habitats with habitat preferences of birds occurring in the quarter degree
grid according to Harrison et al. (1997). The list of red data species potentially occurring in the
area at that time is listed in the Table 1:2 below.
Table 1:2 List of Red Data Birds Potentially Occurring In The Study Area
English Name Afrikaans Name StatusProbability of
occurrence on sight
White Pelican Witpelikaan Vulnerable Low
Pinkbacked Pelican Kleinpelikaan Vulnerable Low
Whitebacked Night
Heron
Witrugnagreier Vulnerable Medium to low
Black Stork Groot swartooievaar Near threatened High
Marabou Stork Maraboe Near threatened High
Yellowbilled Stork Nimmersat Near threatened High
Greater Flamingo Grootflamink Near threatened Low
Lesser Flamingo Kleinflamink Near threatened Low
Secretarybird Sekretarisvoël Near threatened Medium
Cape Vulture Kransaasvoël Vulnerable Medium
Whitebacked Vulture Witrugaasvoël Vulnerable Medium
English Name Afrikaans Name StatusProbability of
occurrence on sight
Lappetfaced Vulture Swartaasvoël Vulnerable Medium
Tawny Eagle Roofarend Vulnerable Medium to high
Ayres' Eagle Kleinjagarend Near threatened Medium
Martial Eagle Breëkoparend Vulnerable Medium
African Marsh Harrier Afrikaanse Vleivalk Vulnerable Medium to low
Peregrine Falcon Swerfvalk Near threatened Low
Pallid Harrier Witborsvleivalk Near threatened Low
Lanner Falcon Edelvalk Near threatened Low
Lesser Kestrel Kleinrooivalk Vulnerable Medium to low
MammalsTable 1:3 below outlines red data mammal species that could occur according to Friedman and Daly (2004), in the study area in 2009/2010.
Table 1:3 List Of Red Data Mammals That May Occur In The Study Area
Scientific Name Vernacular Name Probability Of Occurrence
Status
Acinonyx jubatus Cheetah Low Vulnerable
Atelerix frontalis South African Hedgehog Marginal Near threatened
Hyaena brunnea Brown hyena Medium Near threatened
Laecon pictus African wild dog Low Endangered
Manis temminckii Pangolin Medium Vulnerable
Mellivora capensis Honey badger Medium Near threatened
Miniopterus schreibersii Schreibers’ long fingered bat High Near threatened
Herpetofauna
The Southern African Python (phython natalensis), an International Union for Conservation of
Nature (IUCN) red data species had a moderate to high probability of occurring in the mineral
lease area.
Domestic Fuel Burning
Domestic fuel burning had been identified throughout the various studies as one of the most
significant sources of atmospheric emissions impacting on human health and well-being. This is
due to the level of release of domestic fuel burning emissions within the breathing spaces of
people, with the main pollutants of concern being fine particulates (PM10) and sulphor dioxide.
The extent of household fuel combustion in the region of the Thaba Cronimet Chrome Mine was
not known
Economic Activities
The main economic activities within the region included agriculture, small scale farming,
commercial farming and mining. These activities were widely scattered throughout the region.
Cattle farms (primarily when operated on large scale) are significant sources of fugitive dust
especially when feedlots are used and the cattle trample in confined areas. The calf-cow sector
of the beef industry was found to be the large stemitter of methane emissions. Where animals
are confined densely, the main pollutants of concern include dust from the animal movements,
their feed and their manure, ammonia from the animal urine and manure, and hydrogen
sulphide from manure pits. This was not a likely problem in this region with farms only located
far away and covering large areas.
(c) Description of specific environmental features and infrastructure on the site.
Stone Age SitesThree sites with Stone Age material were on record for areas within the CCMSA mineral lease
area. These sites are all open air sites situated around hills and rock outcrops. The sites are
located on the farms Zwartkop 369 KQ and Moddergat 389 KQ. Diagnostic features on the tools
consist of facets on the striking platform indicating Middle Stone Age occupation. Raw material
consists of igneous rock, Hornfels and possibly Silcrete. Raw material was found in abundance
on the farm Zwartkop 369 KQ consisting of Quartzite, Chert, Banded Iron Stone and Rhyolite.
Details of the sites as follows:
Site 2: the site is located on the farm Zwartkop 369 KQ and consists of a high
concentration of artefacts scattered mostly on the northern side of Mooskop. Raw
material is abundant in this area consisting of Quartzite, Chert, Banded Iron Stone and
Rhyolite. Artefacts consist of diagnostic Middle Stone Age tools and includes amongst
other prepared cores and tools with facets on the striking platform. The tools are well
preserved and do not show much weathering and contain clear diagnostic features;
Site 7 and site 9 are located on the farm Moddergat and consist of a medium frequency
of artefacts scattered around small hills close to the Bierspruit. Because of sheet erosion
the artefacts are weathered and badly preserved and not much can be said about them.
Diagnostic features on the tools consist of facets on the striking platform indicating
Middle Stone Age occupation. Raw material consists of igneous rock, Hornfels and
possibly Silcrete
Iron Age Sites
Twenty nine Late Iron Age stone walled sites and one “spot find” site market by cultural material
in the form of undecorated ceramics was on record for the farms Zwartkop 369 KQ, Moddergat
389 KQ and Schildpadsnest 385 KQ. These Late Iron Age remains consist of cattle kraals and
smaller livestock (sheep/goat) enclosures, hut bays, granary platforms, the remains of huts and
other associated features such as ash middens and grinding hollows. Details as follows:
Late Iron Age Complex Sites
Site 1: This site is located on the farm Zwartkop 369 KQ to the east of Mooskop. Recent
mining activities have occurred on site and trace evidence of an Iron Age Site was found
in the vicinity.
Site 2: This site is also located on the farm Zwartkop 369 KQ and is situated on the north
of Mooskop. The site is highly overgrown but fairly well preserved.
Site 4: The site is situated on the farm Moddergat 389 KQ and is located on the eastern
boundary of the farm. The farm road and the construction of power lines impacted
negatively on the site. The site is located on turf soil but several decorated ceramic
fragments were exposed by the impact of the road on the site.
Site 5: The site is situated on the farm Moddergat 389 KQ around a small hill. Finds
include ceramics, cattle enclosures hut bays en grinding hollows.
Site 12: The site is located on the farm Moddergat 389 KQ and consists of several large
cattle enclosures. The site is located on a low running ridge close to the Bierspruit.
Site 17: The site consists of at least six enclosures of approximately 5 -10 meters in
diameter. The site is located on the farm Moddergat 389 KQ
Site 20: The site is located on the farm Schildpadsnest 385 KQ. The site is highly
overgrown and it is not possible to determine layout. This site is of interest because it
might have an outer enclosing wall that so far has not been documented at the other
complex site.
Site 21: The site consists of at least five enclosures with an average diameter of
between 5 -10 meters next to a rock outcrop. The natural rock has been included in the
design. The site is located on the farm Schildpadsnest 385 KQ.
Site 24: The site is located on the farm Schildpadsnest 385 KQ and consist of several
large cattle enclosures.
Site 25: The site is located on a low running ridge at the eastern boundary of the farm
Schildpadsnest 385 KQ and consist of several large cattle enclosures. The farm road
next to fence impacted negatively on the site, destroying several enclosures.
Site 29: The site is located on the farm Schildpadsnest 385 KQ and consists of an
extensive settlement. The site is how ever badly preserved and some of the walling
might have been robbed to construct farm labourer dwellings.
Late Iron Age Simplex Sites
Site 6: The site is located on the farm Moddergat 389 KQ. Two enclosures interpreted as
cattle kraals occur around a small hill. Grinding hollows are found on top of the small
outcrop.
Site 8: The site is located on the farm Moddergat 389 KQ. The site consists of a single
cattle enclosure next to a small rock outcrop close to the Bierspruit.
Site 10: The site consists of badly preserved stone walling around a small rock outcrop
on Moddergat 389 KQ.
Site 11: The site consists of badly preserved stone enclosures located in the saddle of a
small hill on the farm Moddergat 389 KQ.
Site 13: Site 13 is located on the farm Moddergat 389 KQ. The site consists of a cattle
enclosure on a low running ridge next to the Bierspruit.
Site 14: Site 14 is located on the farm Moddergat 389 KQ. The site consists of a cattle
enclosure and grinding hollows on a low running ridge next to the Bierspruit.
Site 15: Site 15 is located on the farm Moddergat 389 KQ. The site consists of a cattle
enclosure.
Site 16: Site 16 consists of the well preserved dry stone walls of a cattle enclosure next
to a rock outcrop.
Site 18: The site is located on the farm Moddergat 389 KQ and consists of a cattle kraal
of approximately 20 meters in diameter.
Site 22: The site is located on the farm Schildpadsnest 385 KQ. The site is overgrown
and consists of a large cattle enclosure.
Site 23: The site is located on the farm Schildpadsnest 385 KQ. The site is overgrown
and consists of a large cattle enclosure.
Site 28: The site is located on the western portion of the farm Moddergat far away from
the river. The site is classified as a find spot, consisting of the undecorated ceramic
fragments of two vessels. No other cultural material is present on site.
Site 30: The site is located on the farm Schildpadsnest 385 KQ and consists of
enclosure of approximately 7meter in diameter. The site is badly preserved and some of
the walling has been robbed.
Site 31: The site is located on the farm Schildpadsnest 385 KQ and consists of a badly
preserved enclosure of approximately seven meters in diameter.
Cemeteries
Details of cemeteries as follows:
Site 19: This is the location of a large overgrown cemetery on the farm Zwartkop. The
graves are aligned east west and the grave dressings consist of stone packed graves
and modern • granite headstones. Some of the inscriptions that are visible is of the
family Lehobye and Mpete. The oldest visible date of the deceased is 1921, giving the
impression that some of the graves might be even older. Due to the fact that the site is
so overgrown it was not possible to do an accurate count of the graves but it is
estimated that there are more than 120 graves present;
Site 26: This is the location of a cemetery with a single grave on the farm Moddergat.
The grave is of a child, Danie Groenewald who was born on the 22 June 1938 and
passed away on the 13 July 1938; and
Site 35: This is the location of a large cemetery in Smash Block. The cemetery is located
outside of the impact area of the mine, but is significant because this is where most of
the recently deceased who resided in the study area will be buried.
European Homestead
Several modern structures occured throughout the study area, but these structures were at
most not older than 20 years and were not considered as significant. However, one structure on
the farm Zwartkop 369 KQ was still being used and well preserved. The exact age of the
structure is not certain but based on the architecture it is assumed that the house could be
approaching 60 years and would then be protected by legislation. Details as follows:
Site 27: This is the remains of the demolished farmhouse of the farm Moddergat. The
house was constructed with red sun dried bricks that were plastered. It is assumed that
the structure is associated with the grave at site 26 and it can be deducted that the site
then must be dating to the 1930’s and therefore older than 60 years and protected by
legislation.
Site 37: This is the location of a farm house on a portion of the farm Zwartkop 369 KQ.
The house is still being used and well preserved. The exact age of the structure could
not be determined but based on the architecture it is assumed that the house could be
approaching 60 years
Historic/Recent Mining
The hill on the farm Zwarkop 369 KQ that is called Mooskop was previously mined in the recent
past by other mining entities and at least four disused adits remain of the old mine workings.
The current mining by other mining entities is the re-processing of the stockpiles.
Sensitive Areas Survey
The proposed project area comprises of wetland units in the central parts of the site on portion 8
of the farm Roodedam 368 KQ, and portion 12, 18, and 26 of the farm Zwartkop 369 KQ.
According to the Wetland Assessment Report (Wetland Consulting Services, 2015), two Hydro-
Geomorphic (HGM) units (including a riparian zone) were identified.
These HGM units represent wetlands on the proposed development site according to the
National Wetland Classification System (SANBI, 2009). These HGM units were identified and
delineated based on the procedure as set out in the “A practical field procedure for the
delineation of wetlands and riparian areas” document, developed by Kotze and Marneweck
(1990) and the Department of Water and Sanitation (2005). The following indicators were also
used to identify the wetland features:
Terrain unit indicator
Soil form indicator
Soil wetness indicator, and
Vegetation indicator
The HGM units identified have been classified as follows:
Artificial seepage wetland: HGM unit is located on the central parts of the study site
on portion 18 of the farm Zwartkop 369 KQ. This artificial wetland system has been
formed due to seepage from mining activities located outside the southern boundary of
the central underground mining area. The PES cannot be determined as it depends
upon comparison of the current state of the wetland with its reference or natural state.
However, it was assigned the PES category E, which is, seriously modified due to
artificial source of water, the presence of extensive reed beds which are not
characteristic of other wetlands in the area, as well as the likely impacted water quality
feeding the systems.
Channeled valley bottom wetland: This channeled valley bottom wetland formed
within Bierspruit on portion 26 of the farm Zwartkop 369 KQ is considered to be largely
modified (PES Category D) due to the discharge of water into the system.
Riparian zone draining the artificial seepage wetland: This artificial tributary of the
Bierspruit drains the artificial seepage wetland on portion 12 of the farm Zwartkop 369
KQ. The PES for this stream has been considered to be moderately modified (Category
C).
Riparian zone (unnamed stream) forming a tributary of the Bierpruit: This stream is
located on portion 1 of the farm Middellaagte 382 KQ and portion 8 of the farm
Roodedam 368 KQ. It is considered to be in a moderately modified state with PES at
Category C due to mining activities at Thaba Mine and other catchment activities such
as livestock grazing.
Demographics
The population of Limpopo Province in 2001 was approximately five million people. The
Waterberg District Municipality is located in the western part of the Limpopo province and has
Botswana as its international neighbour. The District Municipality accounts for approximately
twelve percent of the population of the province, and is comprised of six local municipalities;
Belabela, Lephalale, Modimolle, Mogalakwena, Naboomspruit and Thabazimbi. Thabazimbi is
situated in the south-western part of the District Municipality and accounts for about ten percent
of its population. The local municipality includes the towns of Rooiberg, Northam, Leeupoort,
Thabazimbi and Dwaalboom.
Ward three is one of the largest wards in the Local Municipality, but accounted for only about
ten percent of its population in 2001. Although Ward four is only about a quarter of the size of
ward three, its population in 2001 was roughly the same, thus implying a significantly greater
average population density. A significant proportion of this population is accounted for by
households situated on the outskirts of the town of Thabazimbi, which is situated just outside
the ward at its northern border. The remainder of the population is mostly accounted for by the
residents of surrounding farms.
Ward six is one of the smallest wards in the Local Municipality, but accounted for about six
percent of its population; its population density is some 50 times greater than that of Ward three.
This high population is mostly accounted for by the residents of Amandelbult Mine Village,
which is situated to the east of Amandelbult Mine on the opposite side of the R510.
Ward eight is situated to the south and east of the proposed project site. Both in terms of
surface area and population, it is about four times the size of ward six, which implies that it has
a similar average population density. However, most of this population is accounted for by
Smash Block; if this informal settlement is considered on its own, division of its population by its
surface area yields a population density some 30 times greater than that of ward six. Such
conditions are fairly typical of informal settlements, but nonetheless pose risks for their
inhabitants in terms of the spread of disease, fire hazard and social pathologies associated with
overcrowding.
The age distributions of the populations of Smash Block and wards three, four, six and eight
were compared with those of the local and district municipalities and the province. The Limpopo
Province and Waterberg District Municipality as a whole have age distributions that are typical
of populations with a high growth rate, in that the largest proportions of the population are found
in the youngest age brackets. Thabazimbi Municipality and the wards in the study area differ
from this profile, however, in that the largest proportion of their populations was concentrated in
the 20-29 year age bracket. The economy of the northern region of Limpopo Province was and
still is based on trading, game farming, cattle farming, while mining still is the major economic
activity in the south-western region, which includes the Thabazimbi Local Municipality. The local
municipal area is rich in mineral wealth, with iron, platinum and nickel among the key products.
The importance of its mining sector was reflected in the fact that Thabazimbi Local Municipality
alone accounts for about six percent of the national employment figures in mining. There are a
number of platinum-producing mines in the vicinity of the proposed project, including Northam
Platinum Mine, and the Anglo Platinum operations of Amandelbult and Union Mines. Other
minerals produced in the area include:
Andalusite, which was mined at the Rhino Andalusite Mine of Trollope Mining
Services; and
Limestone for the production of cement, which was mined by Pretoria Portland
Cement at Dwaalboom Palygorskite.
Apart from mining, agriculture constituted an important part of community life and economic
activities in the local municipality. Farming activities in the area included crops, livestock and
game farming (hunting and game ranches); these made a substantial contribution to the local
municipality’s gross geographic product, and were becoming increasingly popular.
Approximately 40 percent of the land situated within the municipal area was utilised for game
farming, two percent for irrigated cultivation and three percent for dry-land farming, of the
remaining area, most was used for extensive cattle farming (Thabazimbi Local Municipality,
2008)
(d) Environmental and current land use map. (Show all environmental, and current land use features)
(v) Impacts and risks identified including the nature, significance, consequence, extent, duration and probability of the impacts, including the degree to which these impacts
(Provide a list of the potential impacts identified of the activities described in the initial site
layout that will be undertaken, as informed by both the typical known impacts of such
activities, and as informed by the consultations with affected parties together with the
significance, probability, and duration of the impacts. Please indicate the extent to which they
can be reversed, the extent to which they may cause irreplaceable loss of resources, and can
be avoided, managed or mitigated).
Construction Phase:
Geology
Impact Assessment
Access to the underground chrome and PGM reserves will be via three declines at various locations
consisting of a downcast conveyor belt, a downcast chairlift and material decline. The excavation and
construction of the portals and associated declines will affect the geological strata. Soil and overburden
from these excavations will be stockpiled adjacent to the shaft for rehabilitation at closure. Negative
impacts associated with construction on the geology as a result of underground mining will definitely be of a short term SLIGHT intensity and of a low significance due to the restricted location of these
structures. The impact however, will be site specific and no impact is expected beyond the site
boundary. Impacts on the geology as a result of opencast mining will definitely be of an INTENSE
intensity and of a high significance, as the impacts will take place on a frequent basis and are long
term due to the fact that opencast mining will require the removal of the overburden to get to the ore
resource in addition to the removal of the ore resource. The impact however, will be site specific and no
impact is expected beyond the site boundary. The placement of surface infrastructure will definitely have no impact on the geology as the impact of infrastructure will be limited to the surface area. Only
vegetation and soils will be removed for the surface infrastructure. The cumulative impacts on the
geology with regards to construction will definitely be of an INTENSE intensity and of a high significance, as the impacts will take place on a continuous basis and are long term. The impacts will
be site specific and no impact is expected beyond the site boundary.
Residual Impact
The residual impact will be the same as the original impact assessment as there will be no mitigation
undertaken.
Topography
Impact Assessment
Changes to the topography of the areas where surface infrastructure is situated will include the
excavation of the shaft/portal areas, foundations, the the clean and dirty dams, canals, berms,
processing plants, stockpiling of overburden and soil and the tailings storage facilities. The cumulative
negative impact of these activities on the site specific topography will definitely be medium in the
medium to long term and of an INTENSE severity. The overall impact of these activities on the
topography will definitely be medium to high in the medium term and of an INTENSE severity. There
will be NO impact on the topography due to underground mining activities. Although the impacts for
Thaba Cronimet Chrome Mine will be site specific, there are multiple mining operations in the area and
the cumulative impact on the topography of the area will probably be medium in the long term.
Residual Impact
The residual impact will be the same as the original impact assessment as there will be little to impact
realized from the mitigation undertaken. The impact of mitigation will be significant in the operational,
decommissioning and closure phase.
Waste Management and Hazardous Substances
Impact Assessment
The impacts associated with waste management and hazardous substances handling include
legal non-compliance, potential soil and water contamination and lost opportunities for waste
recycling. Without mitigation, the negative impacts, of high probability certainty, are expected
to take place on a frequent basis and the duration of impacts are expected to be short term in
nature. The impacts, although varying in nature can be described at a worse-case scenario of
having a MODERATELY INTENSE severity as should the impact take place, the mitigation
measures are generally cost effective and easy to implement. The impacts thus associated for
mining and processing activities are expected to be (site specific), without mitigation of a
medium significance.
Residual Impacts
The residual impact is expected to be rated as a low negative significance if mitigation measures are
implemented as the intensity, certainty and the frequency of the impacts should decrease.
Soil, Land Use and Land Capability
Impact Assessment
The main impacts associated with the construction phase are soil compaction and topsoil loss leading
to reduced fertility, soil loss as a result of wind and water erosion and sediment release to land and
water (by removing vegetation); alteration of natural drainage lines; and the change of land use from
natural vegetation and agriculture (livestock grazing) to industrial within the planned development areas
of the proposed project. Limited impacts are expected outside of the mineral rights area, thus on a
local basis, with the exception along unpaved service roads within the region, where erosion can impact
on adjacent areas. These impacts will definitely occur and are expected on a frequent basis. They will
be permanent in duration, but significance of the impact will decrease when disturbed areas are
rehabilitated and re-vegetated during decommissioning of the mining infrastructure. Intensity will range
from MODERATELY INTENSE to INTENSE as natural functions of the soil will be altered. Impact
significance without mitigation will be high given the extent of the area affected.
Residue Impact
Much of the impacts to soil and land capability can be mitigated to a medium or low significance
because the certainty, intensity and duration of the impact will decrease. The impact of sterilisation on
the land will however not decrease and will remain high.
Flora and Fauna
Impact Assessment
Flora
Vegetation clearing associated with opencast mining and the construction of the surface infrastructure
for the mine will cause a disturbance and destruction to the flora ecosystem. The expected impacts are
fragmentation of the habitat, reduction in the extent of a habitat, destruction of rare, endangered,
endemic and protected species, the establishment and spread of declared weeds and alien invasives
and an increased risk of veld fires causing loss and damage to the natural vegetation. The certainty of
the impact is definite as flora will be removed or disturbed, and will be on a continuous basis. There
are also four protected tress species on site. The expected impact without mitigation will be of a VERY
INTENSE intensity, permanent and on a site specific to local basis. The rating prior to mitigation is
high negative. Removal of vegetation in the greater area has a low probability to lead to a decrease
in the carbon sink potential of the area which may have a high impact in the long term due to the
increased carbon emissions from mining related activities. In addition, the disturbance in the area will
lead to an influx of disturbance species and hence a loss in biodiversity.
Fauna
Vegetation clearing, habitat fragmentation and loss and increased human activity associated with
opencast mining and the construction of the surface infrastructure for the mine will cause a disturbance
and destruction to the fauna ecosystem. The certainty of the impact is definite as natural fauna will not
stay in the area. The expected impact without mitigation will be of a VERY INTENSE intensity,
permanent and on a site specific to local basis. The rating prior to mitigation is high negative.
Residual Impact
The residual impact will be of a medium significant rating, as the certainty, duration and intensity of the
impact will decrease due to mitigation
Noise
Impact Assessment
The environment is characterised by the presence of numerous mining operations. Therefore, the
current and proposed operations will not present a new type of source to it. Noise is in its very nature a
negative impact. The extent of the noise impacts, which will probably occur, will remain local and very
much centred around the activities. Construction will be continuous , but mainly limited to day-time
activities. Due to their limited extents and the long distances to noise sensitive receptors the severity of
the noise impacts will be SLIGHT. Due to the above considerations and the fact that the noise impacts
will be much reduced during night-time the significance of the noise impact is rated as low.
Residual Impact
The residual impact will remain as a low significance post mitigation measures.
Vibrations
Impact Assessment
Two impacts have essentially been identified for the construction phase, namely structural damage and
human discomfort. With regards to the general detrimental effect of blasting vibrations on structures,
due to the proximity to a number of structures and the use of blasting during construction of opencast
and underground mining activities, the expected vibrations yield a probable certainty to structural
damage. Typical blasting activities are expected to occur on a weekly basis and so the frequency of the
impact is classified as frequent. The vibrations from blasting is attenuated as distance increases from
the site of blasting. Only buildings within the mining boundary are likely to be threatened by blasting
damage – spatial impact is therefore classified as site specific. For the vulnerable buildings identified
(locations 7, 9, 11, 18 and 19) damage is expected to be cracked buildings. This is deemed to be a
marked deterioration and is classified as INTENSE. The construction activities are not expected to last
for more than 10 years, therefore the duration is classified as short-term. These factors combine to
yield a Medium negative rating.
Due to the proximity to the community and the use of blasting during construction of opencast
operations and underground mining activities, the expected vibrations yield a highly probable certainty
to human discomfort (this is a higher rating than for structures, as typical vibration levels for discomfort
are much less than for damage to structures. Typical blasting activities are expected to occur on a
weekly basis and so the frequency of the impact is classified as frequent. The vibrations from blasting
are attenuated as distance increases from the site of blasting. Humans outside the mining area may
experience vibration levels high enough to cause discomfort (even though buildings outside this area
may not be affected) – spatial impact is therefore classified as local. Human beings may find
themselves near enough to blasting zones to cause severe discomfort from the vibrations. This is
deemed to be a substation deterioration of human discomfort and is classified as VERY INTENSE. The
construction activities are not expected to last for more than 10 years, therefore the duration is
classified as short-term. These factors combine to yield a medium negative rating.
Residual Impact
Taking into consideration the above stipulated mitigation measures, for both the structural damage and
human discomfort, the rating of both the certainty and the intensity of the impacts from blasting will
decrease resulting in both of the impacts rated as low negative impacts.
Air QualityImpact Assessment
During construction the main dust generating sources will be vehicle activity on unpaved roads and
vegetation clearing and soil stripping for placement of the surface infrastructure. The dust generating
impacts will be improbable and on short term basis as the activities are intermittent in duration and the
construction period will be no longer than five years. The impact will be occasional as activities are not
continuous. The impact will be confined to the site and are expected to be SLIGHT in severity. The pre-
mitigated impact will be low in significance
Residual Impact
The residual impact will not change significantly from the impact pre-mitigation as the significance will
still remain low.
Surface Water
Impact Assessment
There are many surface water impacts that can be expected from the current and the proposed
opencast and underground mining operations, processing activities and associated infrastructure.
Impacts on surface water include the further decrease in the catchment yield, denuded areas are prone
to sheet erosion with resultant increased sediment load to the receiving environment and dust during
periods of high winds. Impacts will also include potential pollution by hazardous substances including
oil and diesel which in turn may pollute storm water which may affect the surrounding water regime.
Poor sanitation and poor storm water management as per the GN 704 requirements are more potential
impacts which may alter surface water quality.
Decrease in Catchment Yield
During the construction phase the impacts associated with the decrease in catchment yield for
opencast and underground mining and surface infrastructure will be of a short term nature as
construction activities will be less than ten years in duration and will be contained within the mineral
lease area. The certainty of the reduction of the surface water yield is highly probable but will most
likely only take place during rainy seasons, thus occasional to frequent in the winter and summer
months respectively. The severity is expected to be SLIGHT as the impacts are short lived and are
easily rectified through mitigation measures. Thus for the surface infrastructure, mining operations and
processing plants, the impact rating without mitigation will be low as the impacted areas and the
quantity of water which is extracted from the larger catchment area is negligible.
Effects on Water Quality
During the construction phase the impacts associated with the decrease in water quality for opencast
and underground mining and surface infrastructure will be of a short term nature as construction
activities will be less than ten years in duration. The impact on surface water qualities will be contained
within the mineral lease area. The certainty of the impact on surface water quality without mitigation
measures is definite due to the fact that contaminants/sediments will flow with storm water away from
the site of contamination. The severity is expected to be SLIGHT as the topography is generally flat
and the rainfall is low and mitigation measures will be easy and inexpensive to implement. The impact
will occur on a daily basis without mitigation measures. Thus for the surface infrastructure, mining
operations and processing plants, the rating for surface water quality impacts without mitigation will be
of a medium significance.
Residual Impacts
Decrease in Catchment Yield
The impact for the decrease in catchment yield for the surface infrastructure, mining operations and
processing plants, post mitigation will remain low.
Effects On Water Quality
The impact on the water quality for the surface infrastructure, mining operations and processing plants,
post mitigation will decrease to a medium significance.
Ground WaterImpact Assessment
The potential impacts on ground water during construction phase include impacts on the availability of
ground water, ground water quality and the impact on the external user’s ground water quantity and
quality.
Impact On The Availability Of Ground Water
The impact on groundwater availability in the aquifer around the shaft construction sites will be small,
since groundwater flow towards the shaft will be a time-limited event. The maximum expected volume
of flow is 11 m3/day (average 4 m3/day, as described in the Baseline report), while the resultant cones
of depression will only reach a maximum radius of 20 m. The groundwater regime also shows seasonal
fluctuations in groundwater levels (according to WARMS data). Construction in post-winter months can
result in low to now-flow conditions. The shaft walls will be sealed as construction continues,
preventing significant inflows of groundwater into the shaft complex. After construction is completed,
the total shaft perimeter will be sealed off. No groundwater flow will take place to the mine workings via
the shaft due to operational and safety reasons. The construction of the processing plants and the
tailings storage facility footprints will have no impact on groundwater availability. No activity during the
construction phase will result in the increase or decrease in water resources below or around the
footprint. The construction of shafts and portals for underground mining will have an improbable low negative impact on groundwater availability of the area in The construction of box cuts will have a
definite low negative impact on groundwater availability of the area in the short term of a SLIGHT
intensity due to the restricted extents of the cones of depression. Cumulatively the impact on ground
water availability will be of a low negative impact in the short term of a SLIGHT intensity due to the
restricted locations.
Impact on Ground Water Quality
Groundwater entering the box cuts and shafts/portals will come in contact with the shaft perimeters and
mine floor. Deterioration in groundwater quality is expected to be limited to an increase in suspended
solids. Further to this, no additional impact is expected because of:
The small volumes of water entering the shafts and box cuts.
The un-impacted quality of groundwater entering the pit (elements like Mg are naturally
elevated and not an indication of pollution).
The short contact time of groundwater with the shaft walls and pit floors.
The natural buffering capacity of the groundwater.
The increase in suspended solids should not deteriorate the groundwater to qualities deemed non-
compliant to fitness-for-use standards, or the water quality objectives for the catchment. Any
groundwater resource at the shafts or tailings storage facilities that is considered polluted must be
disposed in polluted water facilities. The construction of shafts and portals for underground mining will
have an improbable low negative impact on groundwater quality of the area in the short term of a
SLIGHT intensity due to the restricted location of this structure and the low probability of pollution. The
impact will be restricted to the immediate area around the shafts / portals.
Impact On External Users Groundwater Quantity And Quality
During the construction phase, no activites will result in extensive drawdown of any aquifer zones at the
shaft complexes or the processing plant footprints. The maximum cone of dewatering around the box
cuts and the shaft complex is less than 50 m and thus the impact will be low prop. No registered
external user will at this stage be impacted. The construction of the box cuts, shaft complexes and the
processing plant will have definitely have a low significant impact on external user’s boreholes during
the construction phase (short term). The impacts will be restricted to site specific conditions and will be
of a SLIGHT intensity.
Residual Impacts
The ratings for the impacts on ground water during construction would remain unchanged at low significant status post mitigation. It is however to be noticed that for many of the impacts, the ratings for
the criteria certainty and frequency would decrease. As the initial cumulative rating for pre-mitigation
was already low, the mitigation measures would not be able to reduce that any further.
WetlandsImpact Assessment
Impacts associated with wetlands during the construction phase may include direct loss and
disturbance of wetland habitat; increased sedimentation within the wetlands due to sediment
rich runoff from the construction site, also leading to increased turbidity; obstruction of flows,
increased risk of erosion and water quality deterioration
All approved and proposed surface infrastructure associated with the underground mining, i.e.
the underground portals (shafts), the decline box cut and the central surface area (including
explosives magazine) will be located outside delineated wetland habitat and in fact more than
500m from any delineated wetland habitat. Given the flat nature of the terrain, it is our opinion
that the construction of the surface infrastructures will not result in any significant impact to the
wetlands. Without this mitigation, the impact of surface infrastructure on wetlands would highly probably to definitely result in a MODERATELY INTENSE frequent impact on a short terms
basis. Thus the impact without mitigation would range between low to medium significance.
The proposed underground mining will extend under the upper reach of the Trollope wetland
system, which is considered an artificial wetland. It is understood that underground mining will
be undertaken at depth, and that no surface subsidence is expected – the proposed opencast
mining and stockpiles located over the underground mining area attest to this. As a result, the
underground mining is not expected to have any impact on surface flows or on the shallow,
unconfined aquifer. As such, it is improbable that a low negative impact on an occasional basis
(local extent) to the wetlands is expected due to the proposed underground mining.
Both the proposed chrome plant and the PGM plant are located within an existing disturbed
footprint within an existing dirty water area of the mine. Both plants will also be located more
than 500m from the Anglo wetland area. These activities are therefore expected to have NO
impact on the wetlands on site. The proposed tailings storage facility extension is also located
well away from the Anglo wetland system, with approximately 300m separating the proposed
footprint from the delineated wetland boundary at its nearest point. The return water dam will
also be approximately 400m from the delineated wetland edge. There is thus a low probability
of negative impacts to the wetlands on an occasional and short term basis, which may have an
impact locally. The impacts, without mitigation are expected to have a MODERATELY INTENSE
significance. The anticipated impacts, without mitigation are expected to have low significant
ratings, with the most significant being the seepage of water out of the tailings storage facility
and return water dam leading to increased flows in the adjacent wetland area and possibly the
formation of a new artificial seepage wetland area.
With regards to cumulative impacts during the construction phase to general degradation of
wetland habitat, the anticipated impact pre-mitigation is expected to be definite and occurring
on a continuous basis, with impacts potentially extending beyond the mineral lease area (local).
The impact is expected to be of INTENSE severity as significant degradation to wetland habitat
will take place resulting to habitat loss in some places. The impacts will remain long term. The
resultant cumulative impact will thus be high negative.
Residual Impact
On a cumulative basis, with proposed mitigation measures in place, it can be expected that the rating of
the impacts will decrease to a medium significance due to the decrease in frequency, intensity and
extent of the impact.
ArchaeologyImpact Assessment
The potential impact associated with pre-construction and construction activities for the proposed
additional mining and processing activities and associated infrastructure is that Iron Age and Stone Age
sites will be destroyed. Without mitigation, the anticipated negative impact will be probable and
permanent as damage to heritage sites is irreversible. The significance of the impact is expected to be
VERY INTENSE as it is of a permanent nature. The destruction of the sites will impact on the
archaeological record of the area (thus local extent). Thus the expected impact without mitigation will
be high negative
Residual Impact
The residual impact will probably be of a low significant nature on a regional basis, SLIGHT in
intensity and in the short term as construction will not be longer than ten years in duration.
Traffic
Impact Assessment
The proposed access roads to Thaba Cronimet Chrome Mine are located approximately 17 km, from
Northam and 30 km from Thabazimbi respectively. Although the anticipated additional vehicles on the
road as a result of the operations will probably be low, the traffic to and from Northam will be affected
as well as that to and from Thabazimbi on a frequent daily basis. The impact will be of a SLIGHT
intensity and will be on a regional basis. The intersections operate as T-junctions and disruption to peak
hour (morning and afternoon) vehicle traffic flow will occur. It is therefore preferable to restrict mine
construction traffic to the off-peak hours, to minimize the impact on the traffic flows on the public roads
in the vicinity of the mine. Additional impacts associated with traffic expected during the construction
phase will be dust generation and noise generation.
Residual Impact
The residual impact will probably be of a low significant nature on a regional basis, SLIGHT in
intensity and in the short term as construction will not be longer than ten years in duration.
VisualImpact Assessment
It is highly probable that there would be impacts an aesthetic quality and sense of place during the
construction phase. The frequency of occurrence of these impacts would range between on a
continuous and on a daily basis. The spatial extent of the impacts would all be regional, within 50 km
from the mineral lease area as in some instances these could be seen from such a distance. The
duration of the impacts of the construction phase would be in the short term (less than 10 years). The
intensity of the construction phase impacts are anticipated to be MODERATE and the significant rating
of medium. The cumulative visual impact in the area will probably be of a medium significance and in
the short term, as the area is already comprised of mining activity infrastructure, desensitizing the
viewer from the visual impact.
Residual Impact
The residual impact will remain at a medium significance level
Socio-EconomicImpacts during the construction phase on socio-economic conditions include the effects of the project
on the local economy (including job creation, multiplier effects on the local economy, etc.); impacts
related to the effects of the project on the physical environment (such as safety impacts arising from
increased traffic, visual, acoustic and air quality impacts, etc.); and impacts related to an influx of
workers and job-seekers (such as an increase in social pathologies, etc.)
Job Creation
Job creation will be a highly probable low positive impact that will extend to the short term as
construction period is approximately five years in length. The majority of the construction workers will
be contract positions, thus the impact will be of a SLIGHT intensity and the extent of the impact will be
site specific as most of the positions will be filled by people living in the local municipal area
Multiplier effects on local economy
Multiplier effects on the local economy will be a low probability low significant positive impact that will
depend on the proportion of local spending by employees and availability local enterprises to supply
required goods/services. The impact which is expected to be of a MODERATELY INTENSE severity
will take place on an occasional basis and will continue through the construction phase (short term) and
will extend locally as the impact will include micro and macroeconomic elements.
Continued Corporate Investment In Host Communities
Continued corporate investment in host communities will be a low probability low significant positive
impact that without appropriate mitigation, forecasts of local infrastructure development might not be
achieved. The impact which is expected to be of a MODERATELY INTENSE severity as it may result in
much required access to services will take place on an occasional basis and will continue through the
construction period (short term) and will extend locally as the impact will affect surrounding
communities.
Physical Intrusion
It is expected that physical intrusion, a negative impact, will be highly probable and on a continuous
basis if mitigation measures are not implemented. The impact will be on a regional and short term scale
as the impact will continue throughout the construction phase. The severity is expected to be INTENSE
as this impact could negatively impact on quality of life. The impact is thus rated as high negative
significance.
Increased Social Pathologies
It is expected that increased pathologies, a negative impact, will be a low probability and on a
frequent basis if mitigation measures are not implemented. The impact will be on a local scale and the
effects will extend beyond the operational phase of the mine and may be permanent. The severity is
expected to be INTENSE as this impact could severely affect well-being of communities, especially as
cumulative impact combining with existing effects of other mining operations in the area. The impact is
thus rated as medium negative significance.
Increased Pressure on Resources and Services
It is expected that increased pressure on resources and services in the local area will probably be a
MODERATLEY INTENSE severity as backlogs already occur in the municipal area. It is expected that
without mitigation, the impact would take place on a frequent basis and may be of a medium term
duration as impacts will probably persist post construction. The impact is thus rated as medium negative significance
Residual Impacts
The ratings of the positive impact will be increased from a low positive to a medium positive if mitigation
measures as outlined above are implemented. With mitigation measures, the negative impacts will move
from either high to low in the case of physical intrusions or medium to low due to the intensity of the
impact reducing.
Operational Phase
Geology
Impact Assessment
Impacts on the geology as a result of opencast mining will definitely be of a INTENSE severity and of a
high significance, as the impacts will take place on a continuous basis and are long term due to the fact
that opencast mining will require the removal of the overburden to get to the ore resource in addition to
the removal of the ore resource. The impact however, will be site specific and no impact is expected
beyond the site boundary. Impacts on the geology as a result of underground mining will definitely be
of a MODERATELY SEVERE intensity and of a high significance, as the impacts will take place on a
continuous basis and are long term due to the fact that underground mining will require the removal of
the ore resource. The impact however, will be site specific and no impact is expected beyond the site
boundary. The placement of surface infrastructure will have no impact on the geology as the impact of
infrastructure will be limited to the surface area.
The cumulative impacts on the geology will definitely be of an INTENSE severity and of a high significance, as the impacts will take place on a continuous basis and are long term. The impacts will
be site specific and no impact is expected beyond the site boundary. It is proposed that specialist
geochemistry investigations be undertaken to further investigate the impacts of the geology (waste rock
deposits) on the environment and the identification of mitigation measures.
Residual Impact
The residual impact will be the same as the original impact assessment as there will be no mitigation
undertaken. The impacts associated with waste management and hazardous substances handling
include legal non-compliance, potential soil and water contamination and lost opportunities for waste
recycling. Without mitigation, the negative impacts, of high probability certainty, are expected to take
place on a frequent basis and the duration of impacts are expected to be short term in nature. The
impacts, although varying in nature can be described at a worse-case scenario of having a
MODERATELY INTENSE severity as should the impact take place, the mitigation measures are
generally cost effective and easy to implement. The impacts thus associated for mining and processing
activities are expected to be, without mitigation of a medium significance. The residual impact is
expected to be rated as a low negative significance if mitigation measures are implemented as the
intensity, certainty and the frequency of the impacts should decrease.
Soil, Land Use and Land CapabilityImpact Assessment
The main impacts associated with the operational phase are soil compaction and topsoil loss leading to
reduced fertility, soil loss as a result of wind and water erosion and sediment release to land and water
(by removing vegetation); alteration of natural drainage lines; and the change of land use from natural
vegetation and agriculture (livestock grazing) to industrial within the planned development areas of the
proposed project. Limited impacts are expected outside of the mineral rights area, thus on a local
basis, with the exception along unpaved service roads within the region, where erosion can impact on
adjacent areas. These impacts will definitely occur and are expected on a frequent basis. They will be
permanent in duration, but significance of the impact will decrease when disturbed areas are
rehabilitated and re-vegetated during decommissioning of the mining infrastructure. Intensity will range
from MODERATELY INTENSE to INTENSE as natural functions of the soil will be altered. Impact
significance without mitigation will be high given the extent of the area affected.
Residue Impact
Much of the impacts to soil and land capability can be mitigated to a medium or low significance
because the certainty, intensity and duration of the impact will decrease. The impact of sterilisation on
the land will however not decrease and will remain high.
Flora and FaunaImpact Assessment
Flora
Opencast operations and the footprints of the tailings storage facility and surface infrastructure for the
mine will cause a disturbance and destruction to the flora ecosystem. The expected impacts are
fragmentation of the habitat, reduction in the extent of a habitat, destruction of rare, endangered,
endemic and protected species, the establishment and spread of declared weeds and alien invasives
and an increased risk of veld fires causing loss and damage to the natural vegetation. Due to the
nature of the opencast operations, the certainty of the impact is definite as flora will be removed or
disturbed, and will be on a continuous basis. The expected impact without mitigation will be of a VERY
INTENSE intensity, permanent and on a site specific to local basis. The rating prior to mitigation is
high negative. Removal of vegetation in the greater area has a low probability to lead to a decrease
in the carbon sink potential of the area which may have a high impact in the long term due to the
increased carbon emissions from mining related activities. In addition, the disturbance in the area will
lead to an influx of disturbance species and hence a loss in biodiversity.
Fauna
Vegetation clearing, habitat fragmentation and loss and increased human activity associated with
opencast mining will cause a disturbance and destruction to the fauna ecosystem. The certainty of the
impact is definite as natural fauna will not stay in the area. The expected impact without mitigation will
be of a VERY INTENSE intensity, permanent and on a site specific to local basis. The rating prior to
mitigation is high negative.
Residual Impact
The residual impact will be of a medium significant rating, as the certainty, duration and intensity of the
impact will decrease due to mitigation
NoiseImpact Assessment
Noise is in its very nature a negative impact. The extent of the noise impacts during the operational
phase will remain local and very much centred around the activities (site specific). Underground
operations will have no effect on above ground ambient noise levels. Open cast operations will be
continuous but will only take place during day-time. Occurrence of noise impacts for opencast mining is
probable. Due to their limited extents and the long distances to noise sensitive receptors the severity of
the noise impacts will be SLIGHT. Due to the above considerations and the fact that the noise impacts
will be much reduced during night-time the significance of the noise impact is rated low.
Residual Impact
The residual impact will remain as a low significance post mitigation measures.
VibrationsImpact Assessment
Two impacts have essentially been identified for the operational phase, namely structural damage and
human discomfort. Due to the proximity to a number of structures and the use of blasting during
construction of OC and underground mining activities, the expected vibrations yield a probable certainty to structural damage. Typical blasting activities is expected to occur on a weekly basis and so
the frequency of the impact is classified as frequent. The vibrations from blasting are attenuated as
distance increases from the site of blasting. Only buildings within the mining boundary are likely to be
threatened by blasting damage – spatial impact is therefore classified as site specific. For the
vulnerable buildings identified (locations 7, 9, 11, 18 and 19) damage is expected to be cracked
buildings. This is deemed to be a marked deterioration and is classified as INTENSE. These aspects to
the impact will be present for the operation life of the mine and is classified as medium-term. These
factors combine to yield a medium negative rating.
Due to the proximity to the community and the use of blasting during construction of opencast and
underground mining activities, the expected vibrations yield a highly probable certainty to human
discomfort (this is a higher rating than for structures, as typical vibration levels for discomfort are much
less than for damage to structures). Typical blasting activities is expected to occur on a weekly basis
and so the frequency of the impact is classified as frequent. The vibrations from blasting are attenuated
as distance increases from the site of blasting. Humans outside the mining area may experience
vibration levels high enough to cause discomfort (even though buildings outside this area may not be
affected) – spatial impact is therefore classified as local. Human beings may find themselves near
enough to blasting zones to cause severe discomfort from the vibrations. This is deemed to be a
substation deterioration of human discomfort and is classified as VERY INTENSE. These aspects to
the impact will be present for the operation life of the mine and is classified as medium-term. These
factors combine to yield a medium negative rating.
Residual Impacts
Decrease in Catchment Yield
The impact for the decrease in catchment yield for the surface infrastructure, mining operations
and processing plants, post mitigation will be reduced to low.
Effects on Water Quality
The impact on the water quality for the surface infrastructure, mining operations and processing plants,
post mitigation will decrease to a medium significance.
Ground Water
Impact Assessment
Influx of ground water into mine workings
The natural recharge of rainfall from surface to deep level mining is very low. This is due to the
geohydrological regime, where shallow weathered Pyroxenite/Gabbro/Norite aquifers essentially have
horizontal discharge of rainfall recharge. The vertical permeability to the deep, fractured
Pyroxenite/Gabbro/Norite aquifer is an order of magnitude smaller than the horizontal component.
During underground mining the only significant influxes of groundwater to mine workings will occur with
the intersection of preferential groundwater flow zones (dykes or fissures).
Known geological features were investigated over the study area. The main geological features are two
north-south striking fault zones in the northern part of the study area. Although these features can act
as preferential flow zones near surface (<100 m), the water yielding capacity decreases dramatically in
depth due to high pressure conditions. The quantity and water bearing capacity of deep level fissures
are not known at this stage. These are normally features that are encountered during operational phase
activities. The water yielding capacity of these individual features vary between 10 m3/day and 200
m3/day. Prior to mining it is basically impossible to identify the position, strike, extent and yield of these
features.
Therefore, the water make to be expected does not pose a threat to operational phase safety and
production and all water make is incorporated into the operational phase water balance. In the table
below the total influx of groundwater expected in a steady state environment are indicated.
Table 2:1 Groundwater Influx for A Steady State Environment.
Mining ScheduleTotal
Mining Area (Ha)
Natural Groundwater Recharge (M3/Day)
Maximum Influx From Fissures*
(M3/Day)Year 1 2 0.6 0
Year 5 22 7 100
Year 10 135 37 100 - 200
Year 20 342 92 100 – 400
Year 30 478 128 200 - 600
Year 34 (LOM) 503 134 200 - 900
*Assuming a fissure/fault density of 1/100 ha of mining area, with variable water make of
10-200 m3/day.
From the table above it is evident that a single mining fissure can yield more water make than the total
mining area. Underground mining activities will have a low negative impact on groundwater availability
of the site in the long term due to the low recharge characteristics of deep mining activities in the area.
The impact will take place frequently and will be of an INTENSE severity. The water make from the fault
zones will be handled as part of the operational phase water balance.
Water influx into opencast workings will consist of water accruing from rainfall events, release of
groundwater stored in saturated nits and groundwater influx through pit walls. Rainfall will accrue on
active (open) cuts and onto rehabilitated sections of the open casts. The following rainfall data was
used in calculating volumes.
Table 2.2: Rainfall data for the study area.Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Total*
Mm 52 88 101 128 91 86 41 14 6 4 4 13 627*Based in rainfall data from 3 nearest stations, 30 year data.
The release of groundwater stored in saturated units takes place from a depth of the first level where
groundwater is intersected, up to the maximum depth of mining. In the case of Thaba Cronimet
Chrome Mine an average water level of 22 m below surface is used. The maximum indicated depth of
mining is 65 m. Therefore, the maximum saturated thickness of aquifer units is 43 m. Also, not all
interstitial groundwater is released during blasting activities. Groundwater make below a depth of 30m
is typically an order of magnitude lower than what is expected in the shallow weathered zone
aquifer. . The permeability of un-weathered pyroxenite aquifers was taken under low gradient
conditions (low level of drawdown) and the volume of flux was calculated.
From the baseline study (2010) it is evident that the groundwater component decrease on a relative
basis from the start of mining towards the end of life of mine. During the first year the groundwater
component is 39% of the total water balance, decreasing to 16% at the end of mining. Opencast
mining activities will have a low negative impact on groundwater availability within the site area in the
long term due to the small areas affected. The certainty of the impact expected will be low probability and will occur on a frequent basis with a MODERATELY INTENSE severity. Relatively deep water
tables mean that a small volume of water is released from storage, and the expected cone of
dewatering will remain small. The water make from the dykes/fault zones will be handled as part of the
operational phase water balance.
Depletion Of External Users Groundwater Resources And Fountains
A number of groundwater users were identified during the 2009 hydrocensus, with farms Zwartkop and
Moddergat being the closest to the proposed underground mining activities. The majority of the
boreholes identified on farms closer to the activities were drilled for the purposes of monitoring (at
Amandelbult section). Due to the nature of deep level mining activities, no impact on the groundwater
quality or quantity of the external user’s boreholes are expected. The only borehole that can be
affected by opencast mining activities is borehole ZP -11, adjacent to Pit ML2. According to
hydrocensus data this borehole is registered to Trollope Mining services. This borehole will be
commissioned by Thaba Cronimet Chrome Mine, once mining activities start. No other external user’s
borehole is in a radius of 500 m from opencast activities.
Underground mining activities will have a low impact on groundwater availability of external users
boreholes in the long term due to the low recharge characteristics of deep mining activities in the area
and the absence of users close to opencast activities. The impact will occur infrequently and will be of
a MODERATE INTENSITY. Opencast operations will have a medium significant rating on
groundwater availability of external users boreholes in the immediate vicinity in the long term due to
the low, but continuous recharge characteristics of deep mining activities in the area and the absence
of users close to opencast activities. There is a low probability of the impact which will have a
MODERATE INTENSITY severity.
Deterioration of Groundwater Quality In The Mining Section And Seepage Into The Receiving
Environment
Groundwater draining into the underground mine workings from natural recharge will be of a good to
marginal quality, due to naturally elevated cations (Mg). Fissure/fault water make is normally of a
poorer quality due to natural elevated salt loads. In addition to that, certain mining activities can add
pollutants to the water. The total underground water make will therefore consist of a combination of the
following:
Natural recharge from the Pyroxenite/Gabbro/Norite fractured aquifer. The water
quality will emulate the natural background groundwater quality, with an alkaline pH
and total dissolved solids (TDS) values of 400-500 mg/l.
Recharge from fissures/major fault zones normally contains elevated values for Na and
Cl. Other parameters like F and SO4 can also be elevated. The expected pH is neutral,
with TDS ranging between 1000 and 2000 mg/l. Underground blasting activities have a
residual NO3 component. Due to continuous recycling of underground process water,
the NO3 levels can be concentrated above 500 mg/l.
Different sections of the mine will have a variable combination of the three different
sources quoted above.
The mining sections will be operated on a dry basis and all excess water will be used in the
mining process, or pumped to the process plant. Therefore no impact can arise from migrating
water from the mining sections. Underground mining activities will have a medium negative
impact on groundwater quality of the local area in the long term due to poorer quality expected
from fault zones and operational impacts. The impact will have a probable certainty, frequent
occurrence and will be of an INTENSE severity.
Table 2.3: Calculation Of Recharge To Aquifer
Height of tailing dam Maximum flux to aquifer (m3/month)
3 560
5 1 040
10 1 200
15* 1 800
* Maximum stacking height. Note this is not the overall water balance, but only the maximum (conservative) volume of water that can seep into the underlying aquifer units.
Nett evaporation data and the capillary retention potential suggest that the majority of excess water is
either evaporated or remain in the dump, while the pen stock of the facility will remove a substantial
volume of water. The volumes of water that recharge to the aquifer, in comparison to the overall water
balance, are small (1-3%) and will gradually increase towards the end of life of the facility.
The tailings storage facilities at Thaba Cronimet Chrome Mine will have a definite high negative
impact on groundwater quality on a continuous basis around the facility in the long term. The impact
will be permanent with a MODERATE INTENSITY
Residual Impacts
The ratings for the impacts on ground water during the operational phase would all remain unchanged at
low significant status post mitigation other than for the deterioration of ground water quality from
opencast and underground mining operations which would be reduced from a medium significance to a
low significance. The impact of the tailings storage facility on the ground water quality with mitigations
would decrease from high negative significance to a medium negative significance.
WetlandsImpact Assessment
Impacts associated with wetlands during the operational phase may include direct loss and disturbance
of wetland habitat; increased sedimentation within the wetlands due to sediment rich runoff from the
construction site, also leading to increased turbidity; obstruction of flows, increased risk of erosion and
water quality deterioration
With regards to cumulative impacts during the operational phase to general degradation of wetland
habitat, the anticipated impact pre-mitigation is expected to be definite and occurring on a continuous
basis, with impacts potentially extending beyond the mineral lease area (local). The impact is expected to
be of INTENSE severity as significant degradation to wetland habitat will take place resulting to habitat
loss in some places. The impacts will remain long term. The resultant cumulative impact will thus be high negative.
Residual Impact
On a cumulative basis, with proposed mitigation measures in place, it can be expected that the rating of
the impacts will decrease to a medium significance due to the decrease in frequency, intensity and
extent of the impact.
AquaticImpact Assessment
During the operational phase, although runoff from the surface areas may take place, especially during
the wet seasons, resulting in increased sedimentation, the Bierspruit is not situated in close vicinity to
the proposed mining and processing areas and thus there would be a low probability of a low significant cumulative impact on a local scale of a MODERATELY INTENSE on an occasional
frequency.
Residual Impact
The residual impact will probably be of a SLIGHT intensity on an occasional frequency resulting in a
low significance on a local scale and in the short term.
ArchaeologyImpact Assessment
The significance of the impact during the operational phase is expected to be low as specialist studies
have been done and archaeological sites have been identified. However there is an improbable likelihood of encountering artifacts occasionally during the operational phase of the operation as no
construction activities should take place. The impact will be confined to the site on a permanent basis.
Removal of archaeological sites in the area without the documentation will have a high negative impact
in terms of the Archaeological history associated with the area.
Unchanged from the pre-mitigation impact assessment.
TrafficImpact Assessment
The proposed access roads to Thaba Cronimet Chrome Mine are located approximately 17 km, from
Northam and 30 km from Thabazimbi respectively. Although the anticipated additional vehicles on the
road as a result of the operations will definitely be low, the traffic to and from Northam will be affected
as well as that to and from Thabazimbi on a continuous daily basis. The impact will be of a SLIGHT
intensity and will be on a regional basis. The intersections operate as t-junctions and disruption to
peak hour (morning and afternoon) vehicle traffic flow will occur. It is therefore preferable to restrict
mine construction traffic to the off-peak hours, to minimise the impact on the traffic flows on the public
roads in the vicinity of the mine. Additional impacts associated with traffic expected during the
operational phase will be dust generation and noise generation.
Residual Impact
The residual impact will probably be of a low significant nature on a regional basis, SLIGHT in
intensity and in the medium term.
VisualImpact Assessment
It is highly probable that there would be impacts an aesthetic quality and sense of place during the
operational phase. The frequency of occurrence of these impacts would range between on a
continuous and on a daily basis. The spatial extent of the impacts would all be regional, within 50 km
from the mineral lease area as in some instances these could be seen from such a distance. The
duration of the impacts of the construction phase would be in the medium term. The intensity of the
construction phase impacts are anticipated to be MODERATELY SLIGHT and the significant rating of
medium. The cumulative visual impact in the area will probably be of a medium significance and in the
short term, as the area is already comprised of mining activity infrastructure, desensitizing the viewer
from the visual impact.
Residual Impact
The residual impact will remain at a medium significance level
Socio-EconomicImpacts during the operational phase on socio-economic conditions include the effects of the project on
the local economy (including job creation, multiplier effects on the local economy, etc.); impacts related
to the effects of the project on the physical environment (such as safety impacts arising from increased
traffic, visual, acoustic and air quality impacts, etc.); and impacts related to an influx of workers and job-
seekers (such as an increase in social pathologies, etc.).
Job Creation
Job creation will be a highly probable low positive impact that will extend to the long term (life of
mine). The majority of the construction workers will be contract positions, thus the impact will be of a
SLIGHT intensity and the extent of the impact will be site specific as most of the positions will be filled
by people living in the local municipal area
Multiplier effects on local economy
Multiplier effects on the local economy will be a low probability low significant positive impact that will
depend on the proportion of local spending by employees and availability local enterprises to supply
required goods/services. The impact which is expected to be of a MODERATELY INTENSE severity
will take place on an occasional basis and will continue through the life of the mine and potentially
beyond (long term) and will extend locally as the impact will include micro and macroeconomic
elements. With regards to the cumulative impacts on job creation and effects on the economy the
following applies: Several nearby mining operations employ substantial numbers of people; other mines
planned for the area will also potentially add to the number of people employed in the mining sector.
The contribution of mining related industries to job creation will therefore be enhanced through the
proposed project. Secondly, the proposed project, together with other existing and planned mining
related operations, will result in several economic benefits for local communities through direct and
multiplier effects. These effects are usually stimulated by wage bills, local and regional procurement
spend, and investment into local economic development and skills development.
Dependency on Mine For Sustaining Local Economies
Dependency on mine for sustaining local economies will be a definite long term high significant
negative impact that without appropriate mitigation. The impact is expected to be of an INTENSE
severity on a local scale as the local economy relies heavily on mining activities. With regards to
cumulative impacts, in relation to agricultural activities, mining creates a much larger number of jobs
than these activities and others in the services sector. Furthermore, because mineworkers tend to earn
better salaries than those employed in many other sectors, it is fair to deduce that the local economy is
becoming more dependent on the mines or mining related industries. All mines have a finite lifespan.
Inevitably, mining operations in the area will at some point in the future begin to scale down and close,
affecting all mining dependant industries. Unless significant investment is made into economic
diversification, the area is destined for a considerable economic slump once this process commences.
Thus the negative cumulative impact will be definite, of a long term extent with an INTENSE severity.
The impact rating of cumulative impacts will be high.
Continued Corporate Investment In Host Communities
Continued corporate investment in host communities will be a low probability low significant positive
impact that without appropriate mitigation, forecasts of local infrastructure development might not be
achieved. The positive impact which is expected to be of a MODERATELY INTENSE severity as it may
result in much required access to services will take place on an occasional basis and will continue
through the life of the mine and potentially beyond (long term) and will extend locally as the impact will
affect surrounding communities.
Physical Intrusion
It is expected that physical intrusion, a negative impact, will be highly probable and on a continuous
basis if mitigation measures are not implemented. The impact will be on a regional and long term scale
as the impact will continue throughout the operational phase. The severity is expected to be INTENSE
as this impact could negatively impact on quality of life. The impact is thus rated as high negative
significance.
Increased Social Pathologies
It is expected that increased pathologies, a negative impact, will be a low probability and on a
frequent basis if mitigation measures are not implemented. The impact will be on a local scale and the
effects will ex extend beyond the operational phase of the mine and may be permanent. The severity is
expected to be INTENSE as this impact could severely affect well-being of communities, especially as
cumulative impact combining with existing effects of other mining operations in the area The impact is
thus rated as medium negative significance.
Increased Pressure On Resources And Services
It is expected that increased pressure on resources and services in the local area will probably be a
MODERATLEY INTENSE severity as backlogs already occur in the municipal area. It is expected that
without mitigation, the impact would take place on a frequent basis and may be of medium term
duration as impacts will probably persist post construction. The impact is thus rated as medium negative significance
The project area has already experienced a significant influx of people in search of work at nearby
mining operations. It is likely that this existing impact will be exacerbated once recruitment for the
TCCM has started (even if recruitment is limited). Population influx is also likely to exacerbate pressure
on existing infrastructure and services, the growth or establishment of informal settlements and
changes in property value. The capacity of service delivery infrastructure is under threat in the region,
particularly in Smash Block. The influx of job-seekers into these areas, combined with the presence of
an operational workforce and the influx already caused by mining will place substantial pressure on
local infrastructure such as roads, water supply, food security and energy. The combination of the
permanent workforce of mining operations and residual employees/ work-seekers of the other
operations in the area may have a significant impact on service delivery, especially housing. This
impact also relates to the availability of schooling and healthcare in the area. The current and planned
mining operations are contributing to increased rate of in-migration and the resultant pressure on
schools. This influx and large-scale settlement in the area is also causing health healthcare services to
become strained, with further influx from surrounding development creating further strain on the
provision of services. Influx will definitely continue to place pressure on the already limited and
expensive housing and land in the area (local basis) on a daily basis, and the cumulative impacts are
expected to be INTENSE and of a high significance.
Residual Impacts
The ratings of the positive impacts will be increased from a low positive to a medium positive if
mitigation measures as outlined above are implemented. With mitigation measures, the negative
impacts will move from either high to low in the case of physical intrusions or medium to low due to the
intensity of the impact reducing. In the case of the dependency On Mine For Sustaining Local
Economies, the impact will be reduced to a medium significance.
Decommissioning Phase
Geology
Impact Assessment
No additional impacts on the geology are incurred as a result of the decommissioning and closure
activities.
TopographyImpact Assessment
With rehabilitation of the shafts, conveyor belts, processing plants, other surface infrastructure
and the opencast mining operations, the topography will need to be re-established by sloping
the landscape to its original gradient to create the natural drainage flow. The only structure that
will remain post decommissioning is the tailings storage facilities which will have definitely a
MODERATELY INTENSE long term effect on the topography on a local basis. The impact will
be of a high significant pre-mitigation.
Residual Impact
As a result of the on-going opencast rehabilitation during the operational phase, removal of
infrastructure and with the additional mitigation measures outlined above, the overall impact of
these activities on the topography will probably be reduced to a medium significance in the
medium term and of MODERATELY INTENSE severity
Waste Management and Hazardous SubstancesImpact Assessment
The impacts associated with waste management and hazardous substances handling include
legal non-compliance, potential soil and water contamination and lost opportunities for waste
recycling. Without mitigation, the negative impacts, of high probability certainty, are expected
to take place on a frequent basis and the duration of impacts are expected to be short term in
nature. The impacts, although varying in nature can be described at a worse-case scenario of
having a MODERATELY INTENSE severity as should the impact take place, the mitigation
measures are generally cost effective and easy to implement. The impacts thus associated for
mining and processing activities are expected to be, without mitigation of a medium
significance.
Residual Impacts
The residual impact is expected to be rated as a low negative significance if mitigation
measures are implemented as the intensity, certainty and the frequency of the impacts should
decrease.
Soil, Land Use and Land CapabilityImpact Assessment
The main impacts associated with the decommissioning phase are soil compaction and topsoil
loss leading to reduced fertility, soil loss as a result of wind and water erosion and hydrocarbon
pollution. Limited impacts are expected outside of the mineral rights area, thus on a local basis,
with the exception along unpaved service roads within the region, where erosion can impact on
adjacent areas. These impacts will definitely occur and are expected on a frequent basis. They
will be permanent in duration, but significance of the impact will decrease when disturbed areas
are rehabilitated and re-vegetated during decommissioning of the mining infrastructure.
Intensity will range from MODERATELY INSTENSE to INTENSE as natural functions of the soil
will be altered. Impact significance will be medium given the extent of the area affected.
Residue Impact
Much of the impacts to soil and land capability can be mitigated to a medium or low significance
because the certainty, intensity and duration of the impact will decrease.
Flora and FaunaImpact Assessment
The decommissioning phase involves the removal of the mining related infrastructure within the
already disturbed footprint, which will definitely have a medium significant impact on the
remaining vegetation and animal life after the life of mine in the long term as all such activities
will take place within the parameters of the existing disturbance footprint.
Residual Impact
The residual impact will be of a low significant rating, as the certainty, duration and intensity of
the impact will decrease.
NoiseImpact Assessment
The numbers of equipment during decommissioning will be considerably less than during the
construction and operational phases. In addition activities will most likely only happen during
day-time. Therefore, the extents of noise impacts will be much reduced when compared to the
construction and operational phases. Activities will most likely be frequent but will only take
place during day-time. The occurrence of noise impacts has a low probability. Due to their
limited extents and the long distances to noise sensitive receptors the severity of the noise
impacts will be SLIGHT. Due to the above considerations and the fact that the noise impacts will
be much reduced during night-time the significance of the noise impact is rated low.
Residual Impact
The residual impact will remain as a low significance post mitigation measures.
VibrationsImpact Assessment
Due to the small magnitude of the expected vibrations, structural damage is considered to be
improbable. Machinery vibrations capable of being measureable at key locations is expected to
occur very sporadically, therefore the frequency is classified as occasional. The magnitude of
the effects of vibration due to machinery is so low, that it is unlikely to be felt beyond the mining
boundary. Therefore the spatial impact is classified as site specific. Due to the low level of
vibrations, structures are expected to be unaffected. On this account, the intensity is classified
as SLIGHT. The decommissioning activities are not expected to last for more than 10 years,
therefore the duration is classified as short-term. These factors combine to yield a low negative
rating.
Due to the small magnitude of the expected vibrations, human comfort level not likely to be
affected and is therefore considered to be improbable. Machinery vibrations capable of being
measureable at locations where the community members are expected, is expected to occur
very sporadically, therefore the frequency is classified as occasional. The magnitude of the
effects of vibration due to machinery is so low, that it is unlikely to be felt beyond the mining
boundary. Therefore the spatial impact is classified as site specific. Due to the low level of
vibrations, human comfort levels are expected to be unaffected. On this account, the intensity is
classified as SLIGHT. The decommissioning activities is not expected to last for more than 10
years, therefore the duration is classified as short-term. These factors combine to yield a low negative rating.
Residual Impact
The impacts from blasting will remain as low negative impacts.
Air QualityImpact Assessment
During the decommissioning and rehabilitation phase the main air quality impacts sources will
be particulate emissions and NOx exhaust emissions from vehicle activity on unpaved roads
and decommissioning activities The dust generating impacts will be improbable as activities
are intermittent in duration. The impacts will be experienced on a short term basis. The impact
will be occasional as decommissioning activities are not constant. The impact will be site
specific. The impacts are expected to be SLIGHT in severity. The pre-mitigated impact will be
low in significance.
Residual Impact
The residual impact will not change significantly from the impact pre-mitigation as the
significance will still remain low
Surface WaterImpact Assessment
The removal of surface infrastructure and shaping and rehabilitation of the tailings storage
facility will potentially cause an increase in suspended solids in runoff from the site during the
clearing, top-soiling and grassing process. However, in most respects the removal of
infrastructure and reshaping of the tailings dam will have positive benefits in terms of storm
water management. No cumulative impacts during the decommissioning phase are foreseen as
the phase is relative short and the impacts generated by the normal operational activities will
seize to exist.
Ground WaterImpact Assessment
During the decommissioning phase, mining activities will stop. The mine water balance will
consist of recharge to the mining areas, without mine water use and mining sections will start to
fill up with recharge. Tailing dam activities will stop. No additional water will be pumped to the
facility in the form of slurry. Final rehabilitation and capping of the facilities will take place
WetlandsImpact Assessment
Impacts associated with wetlands during the decommissioning phase may include increased
sedimentation within the wetlands, alien species and water quality deterioration.
With regards to the deterioration in water quality during the decommissioning phase the
anticipated impact on habitat degradation pre-mitigation is expected to be probable and
occurring on an infrequent basis, with impacts potentially extending beyond the mineral lease
area (local). This is due to decommissioning of infrastructure in dirty water areas mobilising
contaminants. The impact is expected to be of a MODERATELY INTENSE during larger rainfall
events. The impacts will be short term. The resultant cumulative impact will thus be low negative.
The impact of the increase in sedimentation will result in an anticipated impact on habitat
degradation. The certainty of the impact will be highly probable as large areas of sediment will
be disturbed during decommissioning, some in close proximity to wetland areas. The impact
will take place on a frequent basis (during rainfall events) and is likely to extend marginally
beyond the mineral rights area (thus local extent). The impact is expected in the short term and
will be of a MODERATELY INTENSE severity as this could result in a change to species
composition and increased alien and invader species. The result significance will thus be
medium negative.
An increase in alien vegetation will probably result in habitat degradation on a continuous basis
in the long term, with the extent initially limited to within the mineral lease area but may result in
spreading beyond the site. The severity is anticipated to be INTENSE and if uncontrolled,
infestations could replace indigenous species. The result significance will thus be medium negative.
Residual Impact
On a cumulative basis, with proposed mitigation measures in place, it can be expected that the
rating of the impacts will either remain rating prior to mitigation or they will decrease to a low or
medium significance due to the decrease in frequency, intensity and extent of the impact.
AquaticImpact Assessment
During the decommissioning phase, although runoff from the surface areas may take place,
especially during the wet seasons, resulting in increased sedimentation, the Bierspruit is not
situated in close vicinity to the proposed mining and processing areas and thus there would be a
low probability of a low significant cumulative impact on a local scale of a MODERATELY
INTENSE on an occasional frequency.
Residual Impact
The impact rating will remain unchanged
ArchaeologyImpact Assessment
There is expected to be no impacts during the decommissioning phase as there will be no
activity outside of the footprint areas which would have been already disturbed.
TrafficImpact Assessment
Use for the demolition of the surface infrastructure will travel on the R510 to get to the site. The
possible impacts will be noise, dust due to potentially increased traffic volumes on the R510.
The impact is anticipated to be experienced frequently in the short term. The certainty of the
impact is probably with a SLIGHT intensity. The significance will be low negative.
Residual Impact
No residual impact
VisualImpact Assessment
Cessation of mining will result in a reduction of vehicular, equipment and human movement as
well as a reduction in the generation of dust, generation of materials to store / dump, lights / light
up areas required at night. Demolition of mining infrastructure will result in vehicular, equipment
and human movement, dust generation and lights at night. Demolition activities would add to the
existing negative impacts from the Thaba Cronimet mine as well as other mines within the study
area. It is highly probable that there would be impacts an aesthetic quality and sense of place
during the decommissioning phase. The frequency of occurrence of these impacts would range
between on a continuous and on a daily basis. The spatial extent of the impacts would all be
regional, within 50 km from the mineral lease area as in some instances these could be seen
from such a distance. The duration of the impacts of the decommissioning phase would be in
the short term. The intensity of the decommissioning phase impacts are anticipated to be
MODERATELY SLIGHT and the significant rating of medium.
Residual Impact
The residual impact will remain at a medium significance level
Socio-EconomicImpacts during the decommissioning phase on socio-economic conditions include the impacts
associated with the increase in social pathologies and dependency on the mine.
Dependency On Mine For Sustaining Local Economies
Dependency on mine for sustaining local economies will be a definite long term high significant
negative impact. The impact is expected to be of an INTENSE severity on a local scale as the
local economy relies heavily on mining activities. With regards to cumulative impacts, in relation
to agricultural activities, mining creates a much larger number of jobs than these activities and
others in the services sector. Furthermore, because mineworkers tend to earn better salaries
than those employed in many other sectors, it is fair to deduce that the local economy is
becoming more dependent on the mines or mining related industries. All mines have a finite
lifespan. Inevitably, mining operations in the area will at some point in the future begin to scale
down and close, affecting all mining dependant industries. Unless significant investment is
made into economic diversification, the area is destined for a considerable economic slump
once this process commences. Thus the negative cumulative impact will be definite, of a long
term extent with an INTENSE severity. The impact rating of cumulative impacts will be high.
Increased Social Pathologies
It is expected that increased pathologies, a negative impact, will be a low probability and on a
frequent basis if mitigation measures are not implemented. The impact will be on a local scale
and the effects will extend beyond the decommissioning phase of the mine and may be
permanent. The severity is expected to be INTENSE as this impact could severely affect well-
being of communities, especially as cumulative impact combining with existing effects of other
mining operations in the area. The impact is thus rated as medium negative significance.
Residual Impacts
The ratings of the positive impacts will be increased from a low positive to a medium positive if
mitigation measures as outlined above are implemented. In the case of the dependency on the
mine for sustaining local economies, the impact will be reduced to a medium significance.
Closure PhaseGeologyThere will be no impact during the closure phase on the geology.
TopographyIf the site is sloped to be free draining, there will be no impact on the topography during closure
as all infrastructure and impoundments would have been removed. The tailings storage facilities
and waste rock residue deposits associated with underground mining, however will remain post
closure although the anticipated impact will have a low - medium significance on a permanent
basis with a SLIGHT intensity. The impact will be continuous and on a local basis.
Waste Management and Hazardous SubstanceThere will be no impact from waste management and hazardous substance during the closure
phase, provided that rehabilitation and decommissioning was undertaken effectively and all
polluting substances removed off site.
Soil, Land Use and Land CapabilityImpact Assessment
All areas that were covered by infrastructure and stockpiles before decommissioning are now
bare, compacted and sterile. These impacts are cumulatively rated as medium to low significance prior to mitigation.
Residual Impact
The residual impact will be of a low negative significance
Flora and FaunaImpact Assessment
The impacts on flora and fauna during the closure phase pre-mitigation will be of a medium negative significance with a long term duration and confined to the site. The impact will be
probable and of a SLIGHT severity.
Residual impact
The mitigation measures will result in a low residual impact of SLIGHT intensity in the medium
term on a continuous basis on site. Although the status of flora and fauna will improve from the
decommissioning phase, the impact is still negative compared to the situation prior to mining.
Vibrations There will be no impact
NoiseThere will be no impact
Air QualityDuring the decommissioning and rehabilitation phase the main air quality impacts sources will
be particulate emissions and NOx exhaust emissions from vehicle activity on unpaved roads
and decommissioning activities The dust generating impacts will be improbable as activities
are intermittent in duration. The impacts will be experienced on a short term basis. The impact
will be occasional as decommissioning activities are not constant. The impact will be site
specific. The impacts are expected to be SLIGHT in severity. The pre-mitigated impact will be
low in significance.
Residual Impact
The residual impact will not change significantly from the impact pre-mitigation as the
significance will still remain low
Surface WaterImpact Assessment
No cumulative impacts on the surface water are expected as there is no operational or
decommissioning impact or any impacts from the adjacent properties, provided that
rehabilitation has been done effectively
Ground Water
After closure, the shaft complexes and process plant will be rehabilitated and closed off, while
the tailings storage facility will be managed as a defunct tailing dam facility.
Potential Surface Decant
The mine workings at the study area after closure will consist of decommissioned and closed-off
underground mining levels. The “average” time of flooding is based on the assessment that the
fissures encountered will continuously contribute to the underground water make, albeit at a
reduced rate. In the event that these fissures run dry, or that water pressure differentials
dissipate, the only recharge to the mine is that of normal recharge through the fractured
Pyroxenite/Gabbro/Norite aquifer. In that event the time to flooding the total mine complex
increase to more than 110 years. The geological and topographical setting of the underground
mine units will not create a hydraulic pressure to a point close to, or above the topographical low
of the study area. This means that the final rest water level of the mine will eventually be the
same as that of the undisturbed aquifers. No surface decant from the mine will take place. The
flooded underground sections of Thaba Cronimet Chrome Mine will have a low significant
negative impact on groundwater resources in terms of groundwater quantity and quality in the
long term. This situation will change if water is taken from the underground reservoir for external
use.
Long Term Quality of All Mine Water Seepage
As stated in the previous sections, no surface decant or uncontrollable mine water seepage will
take place away from the mining complex. The only potential post-closure impact is that of the
deterioration of underground mine water in-situ in the long term. The long term impact on mine
water quality in the underground mine complex and the continuous, post-closure impacts are
discussed below:
The water quality will emulate the natural background groundwater quality, with an
alkaline pH and an average TDS of ~500 mg/l. The contact of this water with the host
rock will not induce further salts, due to the inert nature of the waste/host rock.
Recharge from fissures normally contains elevated values for Na and Cl and other
parameters like F and SO4 can also be elevated. The expected pH is neutral, with TDS
ranging between 1000 and 2000 mg/l for fissure recharge water. Contact of this fissure
water with the host rock will not induce any further water quality deterioration due to
geochemical or geohydrochemical reactions.
Underground blasting activities have a residual NO3 component and due to continuous
recycling of underground process water, the NO3 levels can be concentrated above 500
mg/l. Apart from Suspended Solids, no additional parameter is present in notable
concentrations. When the mine fills up with water, the additional NO3 component will be
very small due to the large volumes of underground recharge. The resultant NO3 load
added is expected to be below 1 mg/l.
The impact of flooded underground mine workings will have a low significant impact on
groundwater resources in the long term.
Long Term Quality Of Seepage From The Tailings Storage Facilities
Two Tailings Storage Facilities are planned for the life of mine. The predicted groundwater flux
during the operational phase varied between 560 and 1 800 m3/month. After rehabilitation and
capping of the tailing dam, the recharge to the aquifers is expected to decrease dramatically to
less than 200 m3/month. This is due to the following reasons:
The tailing dams are no longer operational.
Due to rehabilitation and shaping, the natural recharge through the dam will
reduce dramatically.
Piezometric water levels will reduce.
In terms of groundwater qualities, the following can be stated:
Previous studies by ERM (Draft Report: Geochemical Investigation of Waste Rock Dump
Material for the Cronimet Chrome Mining Operation, 2015) have indicated that the waste
material has no risk for Acid Rock Drainage. Four of the five samples tested by ERM
were classified as Type 3 waste and one sample was classified as Type 4 waste, in
terms of waste classification. Both, Type 3 and Type 4 wastes are considered low risk
wastes which can be disposed of at a Class C landfill or a GLB+ landfill.
The only water added to the system is clean rainfall recharge. No process water will be
pumped to the facility after closure.
The groundwater quality around the sites will be continuously monitored for any type of
impact.
The predicted salt loads (post closure) will reduce to less than 0.5 tons/month. The
polluted water must be monitored and captured post-closure.
The impact of the tailings storage facility on groundwater qualities will be continuous and
highly probable and of a medium significance in the long term. The severity is
expected to be MODERATELY INTENSE and the impact may move beyond the mineral
lease boundary area given the close proximity of the dams to the boundary.
Residual Impact
Post mitigation, the tailings storage facilities impact on ground water qualities will remain a
medium significance. The other ground water impacts discussed above will be reduced to a low significance.
WetlandsImpact Assessment
Impacts associated with wetlands during closure and post closure may include increased
sedimentation within the wetlands and water quality deterioration.
With regards to the increase in sedimentation during the closure phase the anticipated impact
on habitat degradation pre-mitigation is expected to be highly probable and occurring on a
frequent basis, with impacts potentially extending beyond the mineral lease area (local). This is
due to decommissioning of infrastructure in dirty water areas mobilising contaminants. The
impact is expected to be of a MODERATELY INTENSE during larger rainfall events. The
impacts will be long term. The resultant cumulative impact will thus be medium negative.
The impact of the decrease in water quality will result in an anticipated impact on habitat
degradation. The certainty of the impact will be improbable as decant is considered unlikely.
The impact will take place on an occasional basis and is not likely to extend beyond the mineral
rights area (thus site specific extent). The impact is expected in the long term and will be of a
SLIGHT severity as water quality in is not expected to be heavily impacted upon. The result
significance will thus be low negative.
Residual Impact
On a cumulative basis, with proposed mitigation measures in place, it can be expected that the
rating of the impacts will either remain as a low significance or decrease to a low significance
due to the decrease in frequency, intensity and extent of the impact.
AquaticImpact Assessment
There will be no further impact
ArchaeologyImpact Assessment
There is expected to be no impacts during the decommission phase as there will be no activity
outside of the footprint areas which would have been already disturbed.
TrafficImpact Assessment
No further impact on traffic, albeit positively
VisualImpact Assessment
Closure will result in a reduction of vehicular, equipment and human movement as well as a
reduction in the generation of dust, generation of materials to store / dump, lights / light up areas
required at night. It is highly probable that there would be impacts an aesthetic quality and
sense of place during the closure phase. The frequency of occurrence of these impacts would
range between on a continuous and on a daily basis. The spatial extent of the impacts would all
be regional, within 50 km from the mineral lease area as in some instances these could be seen
from such a distance. The duration of the impacts of closure and post closure would be in the
short term. The intensity of the impacts are anticipated to be MODERATELY SLIGHT and the
significant rating of medium.
Residual Impact
With the correct and effective implementation of mitigation measures, the resultant significance
for post closure is anticipated to be low.
Socio-EconomicThe impacts associated with closure and beyond closure of the mining operations is the
persistence of social pathologies (e.g: HIV/AIDS). This impact will remain of a medium negative significance.
(vi) Methodology used in determining and ranking the nature, significance, consequences, extent, duration and probability of potential environmental impacts and risks;
(Describe how the significance, probability, and duration of the aforesaid identified impacts
that were identified through the consultation process was determined in order to decide the
extent to which the initial site layout needs revision).
Qualitative Impact Assessment MethodologyEach impact identified with regards to the proposed additional mining and processing activities
and associated infrastructure has been qualitatively assessed with and without mitigation
providing context and reasons for the description that has been chosen. In order to make the
EIR easier to read, the following notation format has been used to highlight the various
components of the assessment.
Significance, colour coded as follows
Red for high negative;
Orange for medium negative;
Yellow for low negative;
Green for high positive
Purple for medium positive
Blue for low positive
Duration will be underlined
Certainty has been typed in bold
Severity/Intensity has been typed in CAPITALS
Frequency has been typed with italics
Spatial has been typed in normal font
Quantitative Impact Assessment MethodologyStatus of the ImpactThe nature of the impact can be described as negative or positive and can be derived from the
significance rating of the impacts.
Table 3.1.1: Status of the Impact and Ratings
Rating Description Quantitative rating
Positive A benefit to the holistic environment -1
Negative A detriment to the holistic environment 1
Certainty of ImpactThe certainty or probability of the impact describes the likelihood of the impact actually occurring.
Table 3.1.2: Certainty of Impact And RatingsRating Description Quantitative
rating
Improbable In all likelihood the impact will not occur. Less than 20 percent
probability of a particular fact or of the likelihood of an impact
occurring.
1
Low probability
Possibility of the impact to materialise is low. Between 20 and 50
percent probability of a particular fact or of the likelihood of an impact
occurring.
2
Probable A distinct possibility that the impact will occur. Between 50 and 80
percent probability of a particular fact or of the likelihood of an impact
occurring.
3
Highly probable
Most likely that the impact will occur. More than 80 percent probability
of a particular fact or of the likelihood of an impact occurring.
4
Definite The impact will occur regardless of any prevention measures. 100
percent probability of a particular fact or of the likelihood of an impact
occurring.
5
Frequency of ImpactThe frequency of the impact refers to the temporal scale of the impact or benefit, in terms of the period
of time that the surrounding environment will be affected or altered by the proposed project. This is
determined by the following scale:
Table 3.1.3: Frequency Of Impact And RatingsRating Description Quantitative rating
Continuous Occurs on a daily basis 4
Frequent Occurs on a weekly basis 3
Infrequent Occurs on a monthly basis 2
Occasional Occurs less than on a monthly basis 1
Spatial Extent of ImpactThe extent of the impact refers to the spatial scale of the impact or benefit of the proposed project and
the area over which it extends. A description is provided of whether effects are limited in extent or
affects a wide area or group of people.
Table 3.1.4: Spatial Extent Of ImpactRating Description Quantitative
rating
Site specific
Effects occur within the mining right boundary 1
Local Effects extend beyond the mining right boundary, up to five kilometres
from the mining right boundary
2
Regional Widespread effect with impacts extending far beyond the mining right
boundary, but within a 50 kilometre radius of the boundary
3
National Within the boundaries of South Africa but further than the Limpopo
Province
4
International
Beyond the boundaries of South Africa 5
Intensity of ImpactThe severity or intensity of an impact is an attempt to quantify the magnitude of the impacts and benefits
associated with the proposed activities.
Table 3.1.5: Intensity of Impact And Ratings
Rating DescriptionQuantitative
Rating
Very
intense
Substantial deterioration/substantial improvement or benefit
Irreversible or permanent change/permanent improvement
Negative impacts cannot be mitigated
4
Intense Marked deterioration/improvement
Long term duration
3
Mitigation for negative impacts is very expensive, difficult or time
consuming
Moderately intense
Moderate deterioration/improvement
Medium term to long term duration
Negative impacts are fairly easily mitigated
2
Slight Minor deterioration/improvement
Short to medium term duration
Mitigation for negative impacts is easy, cheap or quick
1
Duration of ImpactThe duration of the impact refers to the temporal scale of the impact or benefit, in terms of the period of
time that the surrounding environment will be affected or altered by the proposed project.
Table 3.1.6: Duration Of Impact and Ratings
Rating DescriptionQuantitative
rating
Short term The environmental impact identified will be present for less than 10
years
1
Medium
term
The environmental impact identified will be present for life of mine 2
Long term The environmental impact identified will be present beyond the life of
mine
3
Permanent The environmental impact identified will be irreversible and will remain
post closure
4
Assessing SignificanceAfter assessment of an impact in accordance to the preceding six criteria, the significance of an impact
can be determined through a synthesis of the aspects produced in terms of their status, probability,
duration, extent and severity. The significance of an impact is an expression of the cost or value of an
impact to society. The focus must be a judgement as to whether or not impacts are significant, based
upon the value system of society, or groups of people (Thompson, 1988, 1990). The evaluation of
significance is subject to, contingent with values, and dependent upon the environmental and
community context (Sadler, 1996). This subsection presents the criteria used to define significant
effects on the environment. The rankings of each of the different impacts relates to the maximum and
minimum totals that can be achieved for each possible impact. The total of the criteria’s multiplied by
the value of either negative or positive impact value is used to calculate the threshold “classes” to
determine the significance of the impact.
Table 3.1.7: Assessing Significance (Negative Impacts)
Rating DescriptionThreshold of significance
High Long term or permanent change to the natural and social environment.
Of the highest order possible within the bounds of impacts which could
occur. In the case of adverse impacts, there is no possible mitigation
and/or remedial activity which could offset the impact. In the case of
beneficial impacts, there is no real alternative to achieving this benefit.
17-22
Medium Impact is real but not substantial in relation to other impacts which might
take effect within the bounds of those which could occur. In the case of
adverse impacts, mitigation and/or remedial activity are both feasible
and possible. In the case of beneficial impacts, other means of achieving
this benefit are feasible but they are more difficult, expensive, time-
consuming or some combination of these.
11-16
Low Impact is of a low order and therefore likely to have little real effect. In
the case of adverse impacts, mitigation and/or remedial activity are not
required, easily achieved, inexpensive or a combination of these. In the
case of beneficial impacts, alternative means for achieving this benefit
are likely to be easier, cheaper, more effective, less time consuming, or
a combination of these.
5-10
Some impacts have been assessed and proved to be positive and a benefit to the social and or natural
environment. Although these impacts have been rated in accordance with the methodology provided
above, high significance values were obtained. The nature or status of the impact proved to be the key
indicator. Should the nature of the activity, as assessed, be positive the significance threshold is
reversed.
Table 3.1.8: Assessing Significance (Positive Impacts)
Rating DescriptionThreshold of significance
High A large benefit to the holistic environment 17-22
Medium A benefit to the holistic environment 11-16
Low No real benefit to the holistic environment 5-10
(vii) The positive and negative impacts that the proposed activity (in terms of the initial site layout) and alternatives will have on the environment and the community that may be affected.
(Provide a discussion in terms of advantages and disadvantages of the initial site layout compared to alternative layout options to accommodate concerns raised by affected parties)
Environmental aspects and associated impacts associated with activities which have
been considered during the assessment are summarised below
Positive impacts Local employment opportunities
Skills transfer
Social and labour plan- local economic development initiatives (procurement of goods
and services from local enterprises), bursaries, learnerships
Salaries and wages- cash flows to the national tax revenue
Unlocking mineral potential
Increase of gross geographic product
Negative impacts Groundwater and surface water pollution
Erosion
Loss of vegetation and fauna habitats
Change in landscape
Visual impact
Dust generation
(viii) The possible mitigation measures that could be applied and the level of risk.
Impact
Rating before mitigation
Summary of mitigation measures
Rating after mitigation
Stat
us
Cer
tain
ty
Freq
uenc
y
Spat
ial
exte
nt
Dur
atio
n
Inte
nsity
Sign
ifica
nce
ratin
g
Stat
us
Cer
tain
ty
Freq
uenc
y
Spat
ial
exte
ntD
urat
ion
Inte
nsity
Sign
ifica
nce
ratin
g
Geology
Removal of ore bodies -1 5 5 1 3 4 -18 Not required -1 5 5 1 3 4 -18
Topography
Disturbances/changes to the topography of the are
-1 5 3 1 3 3 -15 Impact will be slightly mitigated through mitigation measures for flora and fauna and soil management.
-1 5 3 1 3 3 -15
Waste Management And Hazardous Substance Management
Inadequate storage of hazardous substances resulting in potential soil and water contamination
-1 4 3 1 1 2 -11 Store all hydrocarbon sources inside bunded areas with impermeable floors.
Filter all surface water from these bunded areas through hydrocarbon management facilities.
Store all hazardous substances (oils, diesel, chemicals) in containers of sufficient strength and structural integrity to ensure that it is unlikely to burst or leak during ordinary use.
Handle, manage and store all chemicals according to their material safety data sheets which are to be located at all points of storage and where the chemical is used.
Ensure that the surface where oil and diesel is delivered and handled is impermeable and not connected to surface
-1 2 2 1 1 1 -7
ImpactRating before mitigation
Summary of mitigation measuresRating after mitigation
water drainage systems, including stormwater drains
Inspect all bunds, tanks and pipework regularly for signs of damage to ensure integrity
Implement a proper and robust vehicle maintenance programme to reduce the risk of spillages of reagents and hydrocarbons during transportation
Separate waste into various categories as defined by the operational procedures to ensure optimal waste recycling and correct disposal
Train all employees and contractors on the separation of waste as defined by the operational procedures
Treat and dispose of waste as near as possible to the point of production as is technically and environmentally possible
Dispose of hazardous waste at either a permitted H:H or H:h landfill site depending on the waste characteristics and maintain safe disposal certificates.
Dispose of general waste at a permitted general landfill site. Waybills of disposal are to be recorded.
Collect hazardous waste at the stipulated maximum weight or at a minimum frequency of every 90 days whether or not the container is full.
Train all relevant employees in cleaning up of a spillage and ensure that all necessary spill kits containing the correct equipment to clean up spills are made available at strategic points in the plant area
Optimise the recycling, re-use and reduction of both general and hazardous waste
ImpactRating before mitigation
Summary of mitigation measuresRating after mitigation
Soil, Land Use and Land Capability Management
Soil compaction because of vehicle movement and the construction of facilities.
-1 5 4 1 4 3 -17 Use existing roads and minimise new roads. The width of service roads must be minimised as much as possible
Maintain grass cover for as long as possible
Erosion control measures must be constructed
Stripped soils should be stockpiled as a berm upslope (majority) and surrounding the disturbed area.
Stripping machinery should be used when soil moisture content is below approximately 8% to limit soil compaction.
Stripping of topsoil should not be done earlier than required.
An intercept drain should be constructed upslope of construction and operational areas, in order to re-direct clean water away.
An intercept drain should possibly be constructed downslope of polluted areas, in order to drain potentially polluted water into a pollution control dam.
Conduct proper chemical waste management to avoid spillage of chemicals
Use tracked vehicles rather than wheeled vehicles due to their lower point loading and slip, thereby minimise compaction;
Soil stockpiles must be sampled, ameliorated (fertilized) and re-vegetated as soon after construction as possible
1 4 4 1 2 2 13
Soil loss as a result of wind and water erosion where vegetation is cleared
-1 5 4 2 4 3 -18 1 3 3 1 2 1 10
The change of land use from natural vegetation and agriculture (livestock grazing) to industrial.
-1 5 4 1 4 3 -17 1 3 3 1 2 1 10
The sterilisation of the soil resource where the support facilities will be constructed.
-1 5 4 1 4 4 -18 1 5 4 1 4 3 17
Construction activities may lead to pollution of soil due to hydrocarbon and cement spillages
-1 4 4 2 4 3 -17 1 3 3 1 2 1 10
Flora And Fauna
Cumulative impacts on flora and fauna including:Habitat loss and harm to flora and
-1 5 4 2 4 4 -19 Clearly demarcate the development footprint prior to initial site clearance and prevent construction personnel from leaving
-1 4 4 2 2 2 -14
ImpactRating before mitigation
Summary of mitigation measuresRating after mitigation
faunaFragmentation of the habitat resulting in harm to flora and faunaFauna mortalitiesPresence of alien and invasive species resulting in habitat degradation
the demarcated area; Retain where possible, vegetation between
infrastructural elements associated with the project;
Conduct flora species search and rescue efforts before ground clearing begins;
Remove and relocate any plants of botanical or ecological significance (protected species);
Provide upfront and regular environmental training to construction workers to ensure the protection of the habitat, fauna and flora and their sensitivity to conservation;
Where trenches pose a risk to animal safety, ensure that the trench is secured to prevent animals falling in and getting trapped and/or injured;
Avoid the use of poisons for the control of problem animals and where it is necessary obtain approval from the Environmental Officer on type of poison to be used.
Use existing facilities (e.g., access roads, parking lots, graded areas) to the extent possible to minimize the amount of new disturbance;
Establish protective buffers in areas where there is sensitive habitat such as ravines
Avoid all sensitive habitats by construction vehicles and equipment, wherever possible, in order to reduce potential impacts
Do not undertake any activities outside of the defined construction areas and the road servitudes.
In areas where the speed limit tends to be disobeyed, consider installing speed bumps.
Limit or avoid travelling at night as much as possible.
Where possible, position lighting five meters
Impact
Rating before mitigation
Summary of mitigation measures
Rating after mitigationfrom the roads or paved areas.
Destroy alien invasive plants present, and the seedlings which emerge
Establish and manage an alternative plant cover to limit re-growth and re-invasion.
Institute strict control over materials brought onto site, which should be inspected for seeds of noxious plants and steps taken to eradicate these before transport to the site. Routinely fumigate or spray all materials with appropriate low-residual herbicides prior to transport to site or in a quarantine area on site.
Develop a detailed plan for the control of invader fauna species, noxious weeds and invasive plants that could colonize the area as a result of new surface disturbance activities at the site. The plan should address monitoring, weed identification, the manner in which weeds spread, and methods for treating infestations.
Vibrations
Structural damage -1 3 3 1 3 1 -11 Blasting designed and performed by person holding a National Certificate in Rock Breaking (qualification ID 62869) or equivalent. Inform community of schedule.
Close public roads during blasting. Community may need to be evacuated
based on proximity. Avoid blasting during quiet hours.
-1 2 3 1 2 1 -9
Human discomfort 1 4 3 2 4 1 -14 1 2 3 2 2 1 -10
Air Quality
Cumulative particulate emissions -1 1 2 1 1 1 -6 Apply wet suppression or chemical stabilisation on unpaved roads.
Restrict haul trucks to specified haul roads Reduce unnecessary traffic and strict
-1 1 2 1 1 1 -6
ImpactRating before mitigation
Summary of mitigation measuresRating after mitigation
speed control in areas where speed limits are disobeyed
Stabilise (chemical, rock cladding or vegetative) disturbed soil and early re-vegetation
Surface Water
Deterioration in water quality -1 4 1 2 1 1 -8 The laydown and contractor areas must be kept as small as possible;
Ensure berms and structures are constructed around these sites to ensure clean overland flow is directed into the natural drainage channels.
All wetlands and flood lines must be clearly marked and no activity is allowed inside these boundaries.
Natural drainage channels must only be crossed at specific areas and water management structures must be constructed before the road is commissioned.
All laydown areas and construction roads must be ripped and vegetated after the construction phase is complete.
Water emanating from contractor workshops and stores must be directed to a proper hydrocarbon management unit. All other surface water from the contractor area must be collected in a pond inside the boundaries of the contractor yard.
Parking areas for yellow machine must have spill kits and drip trays in-case of leaking vehicles.
No manufacturing and/or maintenance must be done in any area outside the workshops and manufacturing zone.
All topsoil stripped from the contractor area must be stored on topsoil dumps.
Clean overland flow must be directed around
-1 2 2 2 1 2 -8
Decrease in the catchment yield -1 4 1 2 1 1 -8 1 3 1 2 1 1 -6
Impact
Rating before mitigation
Summary of mitigation measures
Rating after mitigation
the contractor area.Ground Water
Impact on the availability of ground water
-1 5 2 1 1 1 -10 Manage excess water that accumulates during the construction phase as part of the construction phase water balance.
Construction of the shaft complex where possible is to be undertaken during post winter months. Shaft walls will be sealed off preventing significant inflow into the mine workings after construction.
Discharge all unwanted water accumulating in the excavations into pollution control dams for re-use as soon as possible. Limit contact time with shaft perimeter and pit floor
-1 4 2 1 1 1 -9
Impact on ground water quality -1 1 2 3 1 1 -8 -1 1 2 1 1 1 -6
Wetland
Degradation of wetland habitat -1 5 4 2 3 3 -17 In the case of the northern settler dam, the proposed location of the dam was moved to over a 100m from the boundary of the Middellaagte Riparian Zone;
All stockpiles extending into the Trollope wetland/riparian habitat should however be adjusted to remain outside the delineated area. No stockpiling of material may take place within the wetland and/or riparian areas and temporary construction camps and infrastructure should also be located away from these areas, with a minimum buffer of 100m maintained from delineated wetland and/or riparian boundaries.
Clearly demarcate all wetland areas as such to alert mining staff on site and where activities take place in close vicinity to wetland habitat, fence
-1 4 2 1 2 2 -11
Impact
Rating before mitigation
Summary of mitigation measures
Rating after mitigationoff the opencast and surface infrastructure areas so as to prevent machinery and personnel accessing adjacent wetland areas outside the disturbance footprint.
Educate all mine staff and contractors on the importance and sensitivity of the wetland systems on site
Upgrade the existing crossing over the riparian zone with culverts.
Wetland crossings must make allowance for flow connectivity across the full wetland system to be maintained. Install box culverts as opposed to pipe culverts.
No impoundments upstream should be allowed
Im[plement erosion control and the separation of dirty and clean water. Dirty water areas
should be kept as small as possible, while still ensuring the effective separation of clean and dirty water. All clean water from upslope of the dirty water areas should be diverted around the dirty water areas and discharged back into the environment. Clean water diversions should ideally take the form of grassed swales rather than simple excavated trenches that present an erosion risk. The clean water diversion discharge points should be protected against erosion and must incorporate energy dissipating structures to prevent erosion in receiving wetlands. Discharge points should be regularly inspected and maintained to ensure efficient
ImpactRating before mitigation
Summary of mitigation measuresRating after mitigation
functioning. Any observed erosion damage should be repaired immediately and the cause addressed.
To minimise the impacts of mining through the Middellaagte Riparian Zone and Trollope Wetland, it is critical that flow and habitat connectivity be maintained across these watercourses both during and after mining. A stream diversion will therefore be required. Such a stream diversion should be unlined if at all possible and should be vegetated with locally occurring indigenous grass species. Both the diversion floor and side slopes should be vegetated. The diversion should be designed to cater for flood events that might occur. Where required, erosion protection measures should be installed along the diversion. Mining through the Middellaagte riparian zone should be undertaken over as short a time as possible to reduce time that soil is stockpiled, as this could affect the viability of the seed bank.
Aquatic
Destruction / disturbance of the Bierpruit and other rivers in the area
-1 2 1 1 1 2 -7 Comply with the requirements of GN 704 in terms of storm water management and comply with the proposed mitigation measures as outlined in the surface water section and as outlined in the section on flora and fauna management.
-1 2 1 1 1 1 -6
Archaeology And Heritage
Destruction of archaeological and -1 3 4 2 4 4 -17 Fence off all archaeological sites identified -1 3 2 2 2 4 -13
Impact
Rating before mitigation
Summary of mitigation measures
Rating after mitigationheritage sites to date in close proximity to the proposed
mining and processing areas prior to commencement of construction in the area
Include within the training programme, general awareness on archaeological artefacts and the protocol to be established on identification of an artefact. Compile and undertake training on an operational procedure.
Cease work immediately and contact the Archaeological Specialist should an object of archaeological or heritage importance be discovered or suspected to be of importance
Fence off all archaeological sites identified to date in close proximity to the proposed mining and processing areas prior to commencement of construction in the area
Appoint an archaeologist to undertake the necessary recordings and documentation at site two and to obtain a permit from SAHRA prior to the destruction or interference with site one from construction activities. If possible re-route the access road to avoid this site.
Appoint an archaeologist to undertake the necessary recordings and documentation at site one and to obtain a permit from SAHRA prior to the destruction or interference with site one from construction activities.
Noise
New total resulting ambient noise levels elevated above pre-development levels and the actual increase in ambient noise levels
-1 3 3 1 1 1 10 All diesel powered equipment must be of high quality and well maintained
Maintenance must be regular, schedules adhered to and include the exhaust and intake mufflers of engines
Maintenance must include a sound check
-1 3 3 1 1 1 10
ImpactRating before mitigation
Summary of mitigation measuresRating after mitigation
of the equipment During operating conditions changes in
the perceived noise characteristics must result it being withdrawn for maintenance/repairs
Traffic
Increased traffic -1 3 2 3 1 1 -10 Avoid breaking of traffic laws and non-compliance with road signs
Provision of the appropriate traffic signs (warning and directional) to aid with the control of the traffic flow, at the access roads, during the construction phase.
Dust suppression measures will be implemented during the construction phase to reduce dust liberations resultants from traffic.
Construction activities will be restricted to day time hours to prevent noise disturbance during night time.
-1 3 2 3 1 1 -10
Visual
Impacts on aesthetic value and sense of place
1 4 4 3 1 2 -14 Prevent light pollution by avoiding light spillage outside of the project activity areas, the application of directional lighting, security lighting that is only activated upon illegal entry in restricted areas
Rehabilitate the tailing storage facilities soon as possible with indigenous vegetation that will blend in with the character of the existing vegetation
Avoid cutting down of trees If possible, cluster the sewage disposal
and electricity generation facilities together with other mining structures in order to reduce the visual impact
1 4 4 3 1 1 -13
ImpactRating before mitigation
Summary of mitigation measuresRating after mitigation
Socio-Economic
Job creation during construction +1 4 1 1 1 1 +8 Maximise and monitor local recruitment coordinated through the Department of Labour
Promote the employment of women and youth
Avoid hiring illegal immigrants and child labour.
Where possible use labour-intensive methods of construction
Train and increase the skill level of the workforce
Develop and maintain a register of local SMMEs and the types of goods and services provided by them.
Where appropriate SMMEs do not exist, investigate the possibility of launching a training/ skills development initiative to develop local entrepreneurial skills
Where possible, assist communities in responsible investing and savings through a reputable financial institution to take advantage of increasing disposable income
Establish linkages with other institutions involved in skills development and SMME development, such as the community development programme of the local municipality
Take steps to ensure that planned initiatives dovetail with those of other development institutions active in the area, including the district and local government
As far as possible, undertake the selection, design and implementation of development initiatives in collaboration with their intended beneficiaries.
Determine what the communities’ expectations are regarding development
1 5 3 2 1 2 -13Multiplier effect on local economy +1 2 1 2 3 2 +10 1 4 2 3 3 2 +14Continued corporate investment in host communities
+1 2 1 2 3 2 +10+1 3 3 2 3 2 +13
Physical intrusion -1 5 4 3 3 2 -17 -1 3 2 2 3 2 -12Increased social pathologies -1 2 3 2 4 2 -13 -1 1 2 1 4 2 -10Increased pressure on services and resources
-1 3 3 2 2 2 -12 -1 1 2 2 2 2 -9
ImpactRating before mitigation
Summary of mitigation measuresRating after mitigation
Ensure that diversions and major disturbances to national and provincial roads occurs during low peak times;
When necessary, ensure that local residents are kept informed on an on-going basis of construction progress and when access will be blocked in certain areas
Investigate the establishment of a community forum to serve as a dedicated communication channel with the local population
Implement measures to ensure that these speed restrictions are enforced. Such measures may include monitoring vehicle speeds, erecting speed limit signs and installing speed humps;
Maintain roads to prevent deterioration of roads surfaces due to heavy vehicle traffic.
Identify measures to manage/promote road safety and traffic control, taking into account the cumulative effects of traffic generated by multiple development projects
Prevent unauthorized access to the mine site through appropriate fencing and security;
Restrict the making of fires by construction workers to areas where tight control can be exerted, or that the making of fires be prohibited.
Increase awareness of the mine’s complaints and grievance procedures and hold feedback sessions with community forums to assess the impact of this programme
implement HIV/AIDS and alcohol abuse campaigns in the communities;
Include HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted infections awareness and prevention programmes as a condition of contract for
Impact Rating before mitigation Summary of mitigation measures Rating after mitigation
suppliers and sub-contractors. Introduce a voluntary counseling and testing
programme Undertake a voluntary HIV/AIDS and
sexually transmitted disease prevalence survey on a regular basis.
Control access at the construction sites to prevent sex workers and petty traders from visiting and/or loitering
Establish formal liaison structures with the local police to monitor local social dynamics during both construction and eventually operation;
Establish and maintain liaison with existing crime control organisations, such as bona fide Community Policing Forums and Farm Watch organisations;
Quantitative Assessment of Impacts during The Operational Phase
Impact
Rating Before Mitigation
Summary Of Mitigation Measures
Rating After Mitigation
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Geology
Removal of ore bodies -1 5 5 1 3 4 -18 Not required -1 5 5 1 3 4 -18
Topography
Disturbances/changes to the topography of the are
-1 5 5 1 4 2 -17 Impact will be mitigated through concurrent opencast rehabilitation as well as stipulated mitigation measures for flora and fauna and soil management.
-1 5 5 1 2 2 -15
Waste Management And Hazardous Substance Management
Inadequate storage of hazardous substances resulting in potential soil and water contamination
-1 4 3 1 1 2 -11 Store all hydrocarbon sources inside bunded areas with impermeable floors.
Filter all surface water from these bunded areas through hydrocarbon management facilities.
Store all hazardous substances (oils, diesel, chemicals) in containers of sufficient strength and structural integrity to ensure that it is unlikely to burst or leak during ordinary use.
Handle, manage and store all chemicals according to their material safety data sheets which are to be located at all points of storage and where the chemical is used.
Ensure that the surface where oil and diesel is delivered and handled is impermeable and not connected to surface
-1 2 2 1 1 1 -7
ImpactRating Before Mitigation
Summary Of Mitigation MeasuresRating After Mitigation
water drainage systems, including stormwater drains
Inspect all bunds, tanks and pipework regularly for signs of damage to ensure integrity
Implement a proper and robust vehicle maintenance programme to reduce the risk of spillages of reagents and hydrocarbons during transportation
Separate waste into various categories as defined by the operational procedures to ensure optimal waste recycling and correct disposal
Train all employees and contractors on the separation of waste as defined by the operational procedures
Treat and dispose of waste as near as possible to the point of production as is technically and environmentally possible
Dispose of hazardous waste at either a permitted H:H or H:h landfill site depending on the waste characteristics and maintain safe disposal certificates.
Dispose of general waste at a permitted general landfill site. Waybills of disposal are to be recorded.
Collect hazardous waste at the stipulated maximum weight or at a minimum frequency of every 90 days whether or not the container is full.
Train all relevant employees in cleaning up of a spillage and ensure that all necessary spill kits containing the correct equipment to clean up spills are made available at strategic points in the plant area
Optimise the recycling, re-use and reduction of both general and hazardous waste
ImpactRating Before Mitigation
Summary Of Mitigation MeasuresRating After Mitigation
Soil, Land Use and Land Capability Management
Soil compaction and topsoil loss leading to reduced fertility.
-1 5 4 1 4 3 -17 Use existing roads and minimise new roads.
The width of service roads must be minimised as much as possible
Maintain grass cover for as long as possible
Erosion control measures must be constructed
Stripped soils should be stockpiled as a berm upslope (majority) and surrounding the disturbed area.
Stripping machinery should be used when soil moisture content is below approximately 8% to limit soil compaction.
Stripping of topsoil should not be done earlier than required.
An intercept drain should be constructed upslope of construction and operational areas, in order to re-direct clean water away.
An intercept drain should possibly be constructed downslope of polluted areas, in order to drain potentially polluted water into a pollution control dam.
Conduct proper chemical waste management to avoid spillage of chemicals
Use tracked vehicles rather than wheeled vehicles due to their lower point loading and slip, thereby minimise compaction
Soil stockpiles must be sampled, ameliorated (fertilized) and re-vegetated as soon after construction as possible
1 4 4 1 2 2 13
The change of land use from natural vegetation and agriculture (livestock grazing) to industrial.
-1 5 4 1 4 3 -17 1 3 3 1 2 1 10
The sterilisation of the soil resource where the support facilities will be constructed.
-1 5 4 1 4 4 -18 1 5 4 1 4 3 17
Loss of current land capability. -1 5 4 1 4 3 -17 1 3 3 1 2 1 10
Chemical pollution of soil. -1 4 4 2 4 3 -17 1 3 3 1 2 1 10
Flora And Fauna
Cumulative impacts on flora and fauna including:Habitat loss and harm to flora and
-1 5 4 2 4 4 -19 Clearly demarcate the development footprint prior to initial site clearance and prevent construction personnel from leaving
-1 4 4 2 2 3 -15
ImpactRating Before Mitigation
Summary Of Mitigation MeasuresRating After Mitigation
faunaFragmentation of the habitat resulting in harm to flora and faunaFauna mortalitiesPresence of alien and invasive species resulting in habitat degradation
the demarcated area; Retain where possible, vegetation between
infrastructural elements associated with the project;
Conduct flora species search and rescue efforts before ground clearing begins;
Remove and relocate any plants of botanical or ecological significance (protected species);
Provide upfront and regular environmental training to construction workers to ensure the protection of the habitat, fauna and flora and their sensitivity to conservation;
Where trenches pose a risk to animal safety, ensure that the trench is secured to prevent animals falling in and getting trapped and/or injured;
Avoid the use of poisons for the control of problem animals and where it is necessary obtain approval from the Environmental Officer on type of poison to be used.
Use existing facilities (e.g., access roads, parking lots, graded areas) to the extent possible to minimize the amount of new disturbance;
Establish protective buffers in areas where there is sensitive habitat such as ravines
Avoid all sensitive habitats by construction vehicles and equipment, wherever possible, in order to reduce potential impacts
Do not undertake any activities outside of the defined construction areas and the road servitudes.
In areas where the speed limit tends to be disobeyed, consider installing speed bumps.
Limit or avoid travelling at night as much as possible.
Where possible, position lighting five meters
Impact
Rating Before Mitigation
Summary Of Mitigation Measures
Rating After Mitigationfrom the roads or paved areas.
Destroy alien invasive plants present, and the seedlings which emerge
Establish and manage an alternative plant cover to limit re-growth and re-invasion.
Institute strict control over materials brought onto site, which should be inspected for seeds of noxious plants and steps taken to eradicate these before transport to the site. Routinely fumigate or spray all materials with appropriate low-residual herbicides prior to transport to site or in a quarantine area on site.
Develop a detailed plan for the control of invader fauna species, noxious weeds and invasive plants that could colonize the area as a result of new surface disturbance activities at the site. The plan should address monitoring, weed identification, the manner in which weeds spread, and methods for treating infestations.
Vibrations
Structural damage -1 3 3 1 4 2 -13 Blasting designed and performed by person holding a National Certificate in Rock Breaking (qualification ID 62869) or equivalent. Inform community of schedule.
Close public roads during blasting. Community may need to be evacuated
based on proximity. Avoid blasting during quiet hours.
-1 2 3 1 2 2 -10
Human discomfort -1 4 3 2 5 2 -16 -1 2 3 2 2 2 -11
Air Quality
Cumulative particulate emissions and NOX emissions
-1 4 4 2 3 2 -15 Apply wet suppression or chemical stabilisation on unpaved roads.
Restrict haul trucks to specified haul roads Reduce unnecessary traffic and strict
-1 4 3 2 2 2 -13
ImpactRating Before Mitigation
Summary Of Mitigation MeasuresRating After Mitigation
speed control in areas where speed limits are disobeyed
Stabilise (chemical, rock cladding or vegetative) disturbed soil and early re-vegetation
Surface Water
Deterioration in water quality -1 4 1 2 1 1 -8 The laydown/contractor areas and footprints must be kept as small as possible;
Ensure berms and structures are constructed around these sites to ensure clean overland flow is directed into the natural drainage channels.
All wetlands and flood lines must be clearly marked and no activity is allowed inside these boundaries.
Natural drainage channels must only be crossed at specific areas and water management structures must be constructed before the road is commissioned.
All laydown areas and construction roads must be ripped and vegetated after the construction phase is complete.
Water emanating from contractor workshops and stores must be directed to a proper hydrocarbon management unit. All other surface water from the contractor area must be collected in a pond inside the boundaries of the contractor yard.
Parking areas for yellow machine must have spill kits and drip trays in-case of leaking vehicles.
No manufacturing and/or maintenance must be done in any area outside the workshops and manufacturing zone.
All topsoil stripped from the contractor
-1 2 2 2 1 2 -8
Decrease in the catchment yield -1 4 1 2 2 1 -10 1 2 1 2 1 1 -7
Impact
Rating Before Mitigation
Summary Of Mitigation Measures
Rating After Mitigation
area must be stored on topsoil dumps. Clean overland flow must be directed
Ground Water
Influx of ground water into mine workings
-1 4 3 1 3 3 -14 Manage all excess water as part of the operational phase water balance
In the case of proven depletion of water resources, negotiate alternative supplies of water to replace existing usage with affected groundwater users, based on a structured compensation protocol.
Where water is not used during mining, or pumped back to the plant area, disposal must take place in the correct polluted water facility.
Should in the event that water flows naturally or due to pumping between adjacent sections, keep strict records of volumes of water pumped, quality of water pumped, delineation of reservoirs created for the storage of water.
Investigate and implement a ground water abstraction system in the event that an unacceptable impact is identified
-1 2 3 1 1 1 -8
Depletion of external users groundwater resources and fountains
-1 2 5 3 2 2 -14 -1 2 1 1 1 1 -6
Impact on external users groundwater quantity and quality
-1 3 3 2 3 2 -13 -1 2 1 1 2 1 -7
Groundwater quality deterioration from infrastructure on surface
-1 5 5 2 2 4 -18 -1 3 3 1 2 3 -12
Wetland
Degradation of wetland habitat -1 5 4 2 3 3 -17 Strong emphasis should be placed on the rehabilitation of these areas post opencast mining, and a watercourse resembling the downstream reaches of the Trollope system (i.e. downstream of the tar road) should be re-established across the mined out areas.
All stockpiles extending into the Trollope wetland/riparian habitat should however be adjusted to remain outside the delineated
-1 4 2 1 2 2 -11
ImpactRating Before Mitigation
Summary Of Mitigation MeasuresRating After Mitigation
area. Clearly demarcate all wetland areas as
such to alert mining staff on site and where activities take place in close vicinity to wetland habitat, fence off the opencast and surface infrastructure areas so as to prevent machinery and personnel accessing adjacent wetland areas outside the disturbance footprint.
Educate all mine staff and contractors on the importance and sensitivity of the wetland systems on site
Upgrade the existing crossing over the riparian zone with culverts.
Construct wetland crossings as follows: Wetland crossings must make allowance for flow connectivity across the full wetland system to be maintained. Install box culverts as opposed to pipe
culverts. No impoundments upstream should be
allowed Erosion protection must be installed on
downstream discharge
Aquatic
Destruction / disturbance of the Bierpruit and other rivers in the area
-1 2 1 1 1 2 -7 Comply with the requirements of GN 704 in terms of storm water management and comply with the proposed mitigation measures as outlined in the surface water section and as outlined in the section on flora and fauna management.
-1 2 1 1 1 1 -6
Archaeology And Heritage
Destruction of archaeological and heritage sites
-1 5 2 1 1 1 -10 Should artifacts be discovered during the opencast pit operations, an archaeologist must be contacted and in turn the SAHRA.
Effective training programmes to be
-1 2 1 1 2 4 -10
Impact Rating Before Mitigation Summary Of Mitigation Measures Rating After Mitigationimplemented
Noise
New total resulting ambient noise levels elevated above pre-development levels and the actual increase in ambient noise levels
-1 3 3 1 1 1 10 All diesel powered equipment must be of high quality and well maintained
Maintenance must be regular, schedules adhered to and include the exhaust and intake mufflers of engines
Maintenance must include a sound check of the equipment
During operating conditions changes in the perceived noise characteristics must result it being withdrawn for maintenance/repairs
-1 3 3 1 1 1 10
Traffic
Increased traffic -1 3 2 3 1 1 -10 Avoid breaking of traffic laws and non-compliance with road signs
Provision of the appropriate traffic signs (warning and directional) to aid with the control of the traffic flow, at the access roads, during the construction phase.
-1 3 2 3 1 1 -10
Visual
Impacts on the aesthetic value and sense of place
1 4 4 3 2 2 -15 Prevent light pollution by avoiding light spillage outside of the project activity areas, the application of directional lighting, security lighting that is only activated upon illegal entry in restricted areas
Rehabilitate the tailing storage facilities soon as possible with indigenous vegetation that will blend in with the character of the existing vegetation
Avoid cutting down of trees
1 4 4 3 1 2 -14
ImpactRating Before Mitigation
Summary Of Mitigation MeasuresRating After Mitigation
Socio-Economic
Job creation +1 4 1 1 1 1 +8 Maximise and monitor local recruitment coordinated through the Department of Labour
Promote the employment of women and youth
Avoid hiring illegal immigrants and child labour.
Where possible use labour-intensive methods of construction
Train and increase the skill level of the workforce
Develop and maintain a register of local SMMEs and the types of goods and services provided by them.
Where appropriate SMMEs do not exist, investigate the possibility of launching a training/ skills development initiative to develop local entrepreneurial skills
Where possible, assist communities in responsible investing and savings through a reputable financial institution to take advantage of increasing disposable income
Establish linkages with other institutions involved in skills development and SMME development, such as the community development programme of the local municipality
Take steps to ensure that planned initiatives dovetail with those of other development institutions active in the area, including the district and local government
As far as possible, undertake the selection, design and implementation of development initiatives in collaboration with their intended beneficiaries.
Determine what the communities’ expectations are regarding development
1 5 3 2 1 2 +13Multiplier effect on local economy +1 2 1 2 3 2 +10 1 4 2 3 3 2 +14Dependency on mine for sustaining local economy
-1 5 5 2 3 3 -18 -1 4 3 2 3 2 -14
Continued corporate investment in host communities
+1 2 1 2 3 2 +10 +1 3 3 2 3 2 +13
Physical intrusion -1 5 4 3 3 2 -17 -1 3 2 2 3 2 -12Increased social pathologies -1 2 3 2 4 2 -13 -1 1 2 1 4 2 -10Increased pressure on services and resources
-1 3 3 2 2 2 -12 -1 1 2 2 2 2 9
ImpactRating Before Mitigation
Summary Of Mitigation MeasuresRating After Mitigation
Ensure that diversions and major disturbances to national and provincial roads occurs during low peak times;
When necessary, ensure that local residents are kept informed on an on-going basis of construction progress and when access will be blocked in certain areas
Investigate the establishment of a community forum to serve as a dedicated communication channel with the local population
Implement measures to ensure that these speed restrictions are enforced. Such measures may include monitoring vehicle speeds, erecting speed limit signs and installing speed humps;
Maintain roads to prevent deterioration of roads surfaces due to heavy vehicle traffic.
Identify measures to manage/promote road safety and traffic control, taking into account the cumulative effects of traffic generated by multiple development projects
Prevent unauthorized access to the mine site through appropriate fencing and security;
Restrict the making of fires by construction workers to areas where tight control can be exerted, or that the making of fires be prohibited.
Increase awareness of the mine’s complaints and grievance procedures and hold feedback sessions with community forums to assess the impact of this programme
implement HIV/AIDS and alcohol abuse campaigns in the communities;
Include HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted infections awareness and prevention programmes as a condition of contract for
Impact Rating Before Mitigation Summary Of Mitigation Measures Rating After Mitigation
suppliers and sub-contractors. Introduce a voluntary counseling and testing
programme Undertake a voluntary HIV/AIDS and
sexually transmitted disease prevalence survey on a regular basis.
Control access at the construction sites to prevent sex workers and petty traders from visiting and/or loitering
Establish formal liaison structures with the local police to monitor local social dynamics during both construction and eventually operation;
Establish and maintain liaison with existing crime control organizations, such as bona fide Community Policing Forums and Farm Watch organizations;
Quantitative Assessment Of Impacts During Decommissioning Phase
Impact
Rating Before Mitigation
Summary Of Mitigation Measures
Rating After Mitigation
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Geology
No further impact
Topography
Resultant waste rock residue deposits and tailings storage facilities
-1 2 3 2 4 1 -12 -1 2 3 2 4 1 -12
Waste Management And Hazardous Substance Management
No further impact provided that rehabilitation was undertaken effectively and all contaminants removed from site
Soil, Land Use and Land Capability Management
Soil compaction by vehicles removing rubble and by machinery doing the backfilling
-1 5 4 2 1 3 15 Use existing roads and minimise new roads.
The width of service roads must be minimised as much as possible
Maintain grass cover for as long as possible
Erosion control measures must be constructed
Stripped soils should be stockpiled as a berm upslope (majority) and surrounding the disturbed area.
Stripping machinery should be used when soil moisture content is below approximately 8% to limit soil compaction.
-1 4 4 1 1 2 12
Erosion on newly denuded areas where and infrastructure stockpiles were removed. Replaced topsoil and rehabilitated roads are also sensitive for erosion.
-1 5 4 2 4 3 18 -1 3 3 1 2 1 10
Hydrocarbon pollution by vehicles and machinery
-1 4 4 2 4 3 17 -1 3 3 1 2 1 10
Impact
Rating Before Mitigation
Summary Of Mitigation Measures
Rating After Mitigation
Stripping of topsoil should not be done earlier than required.
An intercept drain should be constructed upslope of construction and operational areas, in order to re-direct clean water away.
An intercept drain should possibly be constructed downslope of polluted areas, in order to drain potentially polluted water into a pollution control dam.Flora And Fauna
Cumulative impacts on flora and fauna including:Habitat loss and harm to flora and faunaFragmentation of the habitat resulting in harm to flora and faunaFauna mortalitiesPresence of alien and invasive species resulting in habitat degradation
-1 3 3 2 1 4 -13 Plant vegetation species for rehabilitation that will effectively bind the loose material and which can absorb run-off from the mining areas. Rehabilitate all the land where infrastructure has been demolished.
Monitor the establishment of the vegetation cover on the rehabilitated sites to the point where it is self-sustaining.
Protect rehabilitation areas until the area is self-sustaining.
Diversion trenches and storm water measures must be maintained
-1 2 2 2 2 2 -10
Vibrations
No impact
Impact
Rating Before Mitigation
Summary Of Mitigation Measures
Rating After MitigationAir Quality
Cumulative particulate emissions -1 1 2 1 1 1 -6 Apply wet suppression or chemical stabilisation on unpaved roads.
Reduce unnecessary traffic and strict speed control in areas where speed limits are disobeyed
Stabilize (chemical, rock cladding or vegetative) disturbed soil and early re-vegetation
-1 1 2 1 1 1 -6
Surface Water
No further impact
Ground Water
No further impact
Wetland
Degradation of wetland habitat -1 3 2 2 2 1 -11 Strong emphasis should be placed on the rehabilitation of these areas post opencast mining, and a watercourse resembling the downstream reaches of the Trollope system (i.e. downstream of the tar road) should be re-established across the mined out areas.
All stockpiles extending into the Trollope wetland/riparian habitat should however be adjusted to remain outside the delineated area.
Clearly demarcate all wetland areas as such to alert mining staff on site and where activities take place in close vicinity to wetland habitat, fence off the opencast and surface infrastructure areas so as to prevent machinery and personnel accessing adjacent wetland areas outside the disturbance footprint.
-1 3 2 1 2 1 -9
ImpactRating Before Mitigation
Summary Of Mitigation MeasuresRating After Mitigation
Educate all mine staff and contractors on the importance and sensitivity of the wetland systems on site
Upgrade the existing crossing over the riparian zone with culverts.
Construct wetland crossings as follows: Wetland crossings must make allowance for flow connectivity across the full wetland system to be maintained. Install box culverts as opposed to pipe
culverts. No impoundments upstream should be
allowed Erosion protection must be installed on
downstream discharge
Aquatic
Destruction / disturbance of the Bierpruit and other rivers in the area
-1 2 1 2 1 2 -8 Comply with the requirements of GN 704 in terms of storm water management and comply with the proposed mitigation measures as outlined in the surface water section and as outlined in the section on flora and fauna management.
-1 2 1 2 1 2 -8
Archaeology And Heritage
No impact
Noise
New total resulting ambient noise levels elevated above pre-development levels and the actual increase in ambient noise levels
-1 3 3 1 1 1 10 All diesel powered equipment must be of high quality and well maintained
Maintenance must be regular, schedules adhered to and include the exhaust and intake mufflers of engines
Maintenance must include a sound check of the equipment
-1 3 3 1 1 1 10
ImpactRating Before Mitigation
Summary Of Mitigation MeasuresRating After Mitigation
Traffic
Increased traffic -1 3 3 2 1 1 -10 Avoid breaking of traffic laws and non-compliance with road signs
Provision of the appropriate traffic signs (warning and directional) to aid with the control of the traffic flow, at the access roads, during the construction phase.
-1 3 3 2 1 1 -10
Visual
Impacts on the aesthetic value and sense of place
1 4 4 3 2 1 -14 Prevent light pollution by avoiding light spillage outside of the project activity areas, the application of directional lighting, security lighting that is only activated upon illegal entry in restricted areas
Rehabilitate the tailing storage facilities soon as possible with indigenous vegetation that will blend in with the character of the existing vegetation
Avoid cutting down of tress
1 4 4 3 1 1 -13
Socio-Economic
Dependency on mine for sustaining local economy
-1 5 5 2 3 3 -18 Implement HIV/AIDS and alcohol abuse campaigns in the communities;
Include HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted infections awareness and prevention programmes as a condition of contract for suppliers and sub-contractors
Provide an adequate supply of free condoms to workers
Introduce a voluntary counseling and testing programme
Undertake a voluntary HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted disease prevalence survey on a regular basis.
Establish formal liaison structures with the local police to monitor local social dynamics
-1 4 3 2 3 2 -14
Increased social pathologies -1 2 3 2 4 2 -13 -1 1 2 1 4 2 -10
ImpactRating Before Mitigation
Summary Of Mitigation MeasuresRating After Mitigation
during both construction and eventually operation;
Establish and maintain liaison should be maintained with existing crime control organizations, such as bona fide Community Policing Forums and Farm Watch organisations;
Quantitative Assessment Of Impacts During Closure Phase
Impact
Rating Before Mitigation
Summary Of Mitigation Measures
Rating After Mitigation
Stat
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Geology
No further impact
Topography
No further impact
Waste Management And Hazardous Substance Management
No further impact
Soil, Land Use and Land Capability Management
Soil erosion, especially water erosion because of poor infiltration of rain due to the compaction.
1 5 4 2 1 3 15 Rip soils immediately after operations cease and revegetate
Sample, test and ameliorate soil on rehabilitated areas to improve conditions for re-vegetation.
Prevent the concentration of surface runoff through channels, trenches or preferential flow paths created by vehicle tracks. Install sediment barriers, e.g. straw bales or bidim fences, along the downslope edge of disturbed areas until sufficient vegetation cover has been established.
Where rehabilitation activities take place on steep slopes or areas of high surface runoff volumes and velocities, consider
1 3 3 1 2 1 10
Loss of land capability namely grazing land capability
1 3 1 1 1 3 9 1 2 1 1 1 2 7
Loss of land use namely livestock farming
1 3 1 1 1 3 9 1 2 1 1 1 2 7
ImpactRating Before Mitigation
Summary Of Mitigation MeasuresRating After Mitigation
the installation of a geomembrane to hold the soil
Rehabilitate as close to possible to the Flora And Fauna
Cumulative impacts on flora and fauna including:Habitat loss and harm to flora and faunaFragmentation of the habitat resulting in harm to flora and faunaFauna mortalitiesPresence of alien and invasive species resulting in habitat degradation
-1 2 3 2 3 1 -11 Plant vegetation species for rehabilitation that will effectively bind the loose material and which can absorb run-off from the mining areas. Rehabilitate all the land where infrastructure has been demolished.
Monitor the establishment of the vegetation cover on the rehabilitated sites to the point where it is self-sustaining.
Protect rehabilitation areas until the area is self-sustaining.
Diversion trenches and storm water measures must be maintained
-1 2 2 2 2 1 -10
Vibrations
No impact
Air Quality
Cumulative particulate emissions and NOX emissions
-1 1 2 1 1 1 -6 Apply wet suppression or chemical stabilisation on unpaved roads.
Reduce unnecessary traffic and strict speed control in areas where speed limits are disobeyed
Stabilise (chemical, rock cladding or vegetative) disturbed soil and early re-vegetation
-1 1 2 1 1 1 -6
Impact
Rating Before Mitigation
Summary Of Mitigation Measures
Rating After MitigationSurface Water
No further impact
Ground Water
Potential surface decant -1 2 1 2 5 2 -12 Investigate an abstraction scheme should the monitoring data indicate a requirement for intervention in this regard.
Monitoring
-1 1 1 1 1 1 -12
Long term quality of seepage from the tailings storage facilities
-1 4 2 2 3 3 -14 -1 4 2 2 3 3 -14
Wetland
Degradation of wetland habitat -1 3 2 2 2 1 -11 The mitigation measures are covered in the section on flora and fauna management and on soil, land use and land capability.
-1 3 2 1 2 1 -9
Aquatic
No further impact
Archaeology And Heritage
No impact
Noise
No impact
Traffic
No negative impact, there will be an improvement in traffic post operational phase
Visual
Impacts on the aesthetic value and sense of place
1 4 4 3 2 1 -14 Prevent light pollution by avoiding light spillage outside of the project activity areas, the application of directional lighting, security lighting that is only activated upon
-1 1 1 1 1 3 -7
Impact Rating Before Mitigation Summary Of Mitigation Measures Rating After Mitigationillegal entry in restricted areas
Rehabilitate the tailing storage facilities soon as possible with indigenous vegetation that will blend in with the character of the existing vegetation
Socio-Economic
Persistent social pathologies -1 2 3 2 4 2 -13 -1 2 3 2 4 2 -13
(ix) Motivation where no alternative sites were considered.
Cronimet Chrome Mining SA (Pty) Ltd is a holder of a Mining Right granted on portion
1 of the farm Middellaagte 382 KQ, portion 1 of the farm Elandskuil 378 KQ, portion 8
of the farm Roodedam 368 KQ, remaining extent of the farm Moddergat 389 KQ, and
portion 6, 8, 12, 18, 21, 26, and 28 of the farm Zwartkop 369 KQ and portion 1 and the
remaining extent of the farm Schildpadnest 385 KQ.
The only preferred site for the proposed extension of TSF is north of the existing TSF
and near the processing plant area on portion 1 of the farm Middellaagte 382 KQ.
Furthermore, the proposed TSF on the remaining extent of the farm Moddergat 389 KQ
will also be in close proximity to the processing plant facility.
The proposed locations of the waste rock dumps were considered to be near the
mined-out areas for ease of backfilling during rehabilitation and closure phase of the
mine. The proposed sites are therefore regarded as the preferred sites and alternative
sites were not considered. Moreover, site alternatives were not considered due to lack
of surface depositional footprint area for the waste.
From a mining and environmental perspective, all residual deposits (tailings and waste
rock material) must disposed of on the land surface in order to sterilize the chrome and
platinum group metals minerals within upper and lower critical zones of the Bushveld
Igneous Complex (BIC)
(x) Statement motivating the alternative development location within the overall site.
(Provide a statement motivating the final site layout that is proposed)
No alternative site were considered due to lack of surface depositional footprint area
for the waste rock material and tailings waste.
h) Full description of the process undertaken to identify, assess and rank the impacts and risks the activity will impose on the preferred site (In respect of the final site layout plan) through the life of the activity. (Including (i) a description of all
environmental issues and risks that were identified during the environmental impact assessment process and (ii) an
assessment of the significance of each issue and risk and an indication of the extent to which the issue and risk could
be avoided or addressed by the adoption of mitigation measures.)
The Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) Environmental Risk Assessment Approach
(ERA), as well as the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) Best Practice Guideline 4 on
Impact Prediction will be used in the assessment and ranking of negative impacts. The ERA
method assesses the significance of potential impacts in terms of Occurrence (Probability and
Duration) and Severity (Magnitude/Intensity and Scale). The combined effect of these two
aspects defines the Significance of each potential impact.
DURATION (D)
5 - Permanent
4 - Long term (ceases with operational life)
3 - Medium term (5-15 years)
2 - Short term (0-5 years)
1 - Immediate
MAGNITUDE (M)
10 - Very high/do not know
8 - High
6 - Moderate
4 - Low
2 - Minor
SCALE (S)
5 - International
4 - National
3 - Regional
2 - Local
1 - Site
0 - None
PROBABILITY (P)
5 - Definite/do not know
4 - Highly probable
3 - Medium probability
2 - Low probability
1- Improbable
0 - None
SIGNIFICANCE POINTS (SP) = (D+M+S) X P
HIGH (H) = >60 POINTS
MODERATE (M) = 30-60 POINTS
LOW (L) = <30 POINTS
NO SIGNIFICANCE = 0
POSITIVE IMPACT
i) Assessment of each identified potentially significant impact and risk
(This section of the report must consider all the known typical impacts of each of the activities (including those that could or should have been identified by
knowledgeable persons) and not only those that were raised by registered interested and affected parties).
ACTIVITYWhether listed or not listed.
(E.g. Excavations, blasting, stockpiles, discard dumps or dams, Loading, hauling and transport, Water supply dams and boreholes, accommodation, offices, ablution, stores, workshops, processing plant, storm water control, berms, roads, pipelines, power lines, conveyors, etc.…etc.…etc.).
POTENTIAL IMPACT
(e.g. dust, noise, drainage surface disturbance, fly rock, surface water contamination, groundwater contamination, air pollution etc….etc…)
ASPECTS AFFECTED
PHASEIn which impact is anticipated
(e.g. Construction, commissioning, operationalDecommissioning, closure, post-closure)
SIGNIFICANCE if not mitigated
MITIGATION TYPE
(modify, remedy, control, or stop)
through(E.g. noise control measures, storm-water control, dust control, rehabilitation, design measures, blasting controls, avoidance, relocation, alternative activity etc. etc.)
E.g.Modify through
alternative method.Control through noise
controlControl through management and monitoring through rehabilitation..
SIGNIFICANCE if mitigated
Excavation, stockpiling,
channelling and berms
Disturbances/changes
to the topography of
the area
(Temporal)
Topography Medium Remedy through
rehabilitation
Medium
Disposal of waste on
land and Inadequate
storage of hazardous
substances
Potential soil and
water contamination;
legal non-compliance;
lost opportunities for
waste recycling
Waste and
hazardous
substances
Medium Control through
management
Low
Construction of support Soil compaction; soil Soil and Land High Control through Medium – Low
facilities and vegetation
clearing.
loss due to wind and
water erosion; change
of land-use from
natural to industrial;
soil pollution due to
hydrocarbon and
cement spillages;
sterilisation of the soil
resource
capability erosion control
measures; remedy
through
rehabilitation;
avoidance through
chemical waste
management;
monitor through
rehabilitation.
Opencast mining,
vegetation clearing and
construction of surface
infrastructure
Habitat loss and harm
to flora and fauna;
Fragmentation of the
habitat resulting in
harm to flora and
fauna;
Fauna mortalities;
habitat degradation
Flora and
Fauna
High negative Control through
management;
Avoidance; modify
through alternative
methods.
Medium
Blasting Human discomfort
and structural
damage; New total
resulting ambient
noise levels elevated
above pre-
development levels
and the actual
increase in ambient
noise levels
Noise/
Vibrations
Medium Control through
noise control
measures; manage
through monitoring;
Avoidance, control
through blasting
controls.
low
Topsoil and subsoil
stripping, Transport and
hauling.
Cumulative particulate
emissions
Air Quality Low Control through
management; control
through traffic and
speed control
measures;
low
Storm water control,
stripping, overburden
and berms.
Sheet erosion; dust;
potential pollution by
hazardous
substances; Poor
sanitation and poor
storm water
management;
Deterioration in water
Quality and decrease
in catchment Yield;
Surface Water Medium Control through
management; control
through water
management
structures; monitor
through hydrocarbon
management unity;
remedy through
rehabilitation.
Medium; Low
Tailings storage facility. Groundwater
Availability and
groundwater quality
Ground Water Low Control through
management (water
balance); stop
through shaft design
measures, monitor
through pollution
control dams.
Low
Surface infrastructure Degradation of
wetland Habitat;
increased
sedimentation within
Wetland Low Remedy through
rehabilitation;
relocation;
avoidance; Control
through
Low
the wetlands
increased turbidity;
obstruction of flows,
increased risk of
erosion and water
quality deterioration
management; design
measures.
Storm water control,
topsoil and subsoil
stripping.
Destruction /
disturbance of the
Bierpruit and other
rivers in the area
Aquatic Low Control through
management; control
through water
management
structures; monitor
through hydrocarbon
management unity;
remedy through
rehabilitation.
Low
Construction of facilities,
structures and
associated
infrastructure.
Destruction of
archaeological and
heritage sites
Archaeology
and Heritage
High Control through
management
Low
Construction of access
roads, Hauling and
transport
Increased traffic flow;
dust generation and
noise generation.
Traffic Low Dust control, traffic
and noise control
measures;
Avoidance.
Low
Construction of surface
infrastructure and
tailings storage facility
Aesthetic value and
sense of place
Visual Medium Avoidance; Remedy
through
rehabilitation; Control
Medium
through
management.
Job creation during
construction;
Multiplier effect on
local economy;
Continued corporate
investment in host
communities;
Physical intrusion
Increased social
pathologies;
Increased pressure
on services and
resources.
Socio-
economic
Low Avoidance (hiring of
illegal immigrants
and child labour);
Control through
management;
Increase Awareness
through training,
campaigning and
skills development;
design measures;
traffic control
measure; control
through access
monitoring.
Medium
Opencast mining
activities; Overburden
Removal of ore
bodies; Removal of
the overburden
Geology Operational High None necessary High
Stockpiling of waste
rock residue, tailings
storage facilities,
hauling and transport
Disturbances/changes
to the topography of
the are
Topography Medium to High Rehabilitation,
Control through
management;
Avoidance; modify
through alternative
methods.
Medium
Disposal of waste on
land and Inadequate
Potential soil and
water contamination,
Waste and
Hazardous
Medium Avoidance, Control Low
storage of hazardous
substances
legal non-compliance,
lost opportunities for
recycling.
Substances through management
Construction of facilities,
Stockpiles and berms
Soil compaction; soil
loss due to wind and
water erosion; change
of land-use from
natural to industrial;
chemical pollution of
soil due to
hydrocarbon and
cement spillages;
sterilisation of the soil
resource.
Soil and Land
capability
High Control through
erosion control
measures; remedy
through
rehabilitation;
avoidance through
chemical waste
management;
monitor through
rehabilitation.
Medium
Opencast operations,
tailings storage facilities
and surface
infrastructure
Habitat loss and harm
to flora and fauna,
Fauna mortalities,
Presence of alien and
invasive species
resulting in habitat
degradation
Flora and
Fauna
High Control through
management;
Avoidance; modify
through alternative
methods, traffic
control measures,
alien and invasive
species control
Medium
Blasting, Structural damage
and Human
discomfort, New total
resulting ambient
noise levels elevated
Vibrations and
noise
Medium to low Control through
noise control
measures; manage
through monitoring;
Avoidance, control
Low
above pre-
development levels
and the actual
increase in ambient
noise levels
through blasting
controls.
Hauling and transport,
opencast mining,
vegetation clearing,
Cumulative particulate
emissions and NO2
emissions
Air Quality Medium Traffic and speed
controls, Control
through
management.
Medium
mining operations,
processing plants,
berms, surface
infrastructure
Sheet erosion; dust;
potential pollution by
hazardous
substances; Poor
sanitation and poor
storm water
management;
Deterioration in water
Quality and decrease
in catchment Yield;
Surface Water Medium Control through
management; control
through water
management
structures; monitor
through hydrocarbon
management unity;
remedy through
rehabilitation.
Low
Underground activities,
opencast works, tailings
storage facility,
processing plants,
tailings dams, stores
Influx of ground water
into mine workings,
Depletion of external
users groundwater
resources and
fountains
Deterioration of
Ground Water High Control through
management, Modify
through alternative
methods,
rehabilitation.
Medium
groundwater quantity
and quality
Opencast mining and
surface infrastructure,
stockpiles.
Degradation of
wetland habitat
Wetland High Rehabilitation,
Avoidance; Control
through
management; design
measures.
Medium
Storm water control Destruction /
disturbance of the
Bierpruit and other
rivers in the area
Aquatic Low Control through
management; control
through water
management
structures; monitor
through hydrocarbon
management unity;
remedy through
rehabilitation, storm-
water control
Low
Opencast pit operations Destruction of
archaeological and
heritage sites
Archaeology
and Heritage
Low Control through
management.
Low
Hauling and transport. Increased traffic flow,
dust generation and
noise generation
Traffic Low Dust control, traffic
and noise control
measures;
Avoidance.
Low
Surface infrastructure Aesthetic value and Visual Medium Avoidance, modify, Medium
sense of place. rehabilitation
Community,
Accommodation, offices,
workshop, cumulative
Job creation ,
Multiplier effect on
local economy,
Dependency on mine
for sustaining local
economy,
Continued corporate
investment in host
communities,
Physical intrusion,
Increased social
pathologies.
Socio-
economic
Medium to High Avoidance (hiring of
illegal immigrants
and child labour);
Control through
management;
Increase Awareness
through training,
campaigning and
skills development;
design measures;
traffic control
measure; control
through access
monitoring.
High
No further impact Geology Decommissioning
Tailings storage
facilities, Hauling and
transport
Resultant Waste Rock
Residue
Topography Medium Control through
management;
Avoidance; modify
through alternative
methods.
Low
No further impact provided rehabilitation
was taken
Waste
Management
Transport and hauling,
Access roads,
demolition
Soil compaction
Erosion on newly
denuded areas,
Soil & Land
capability
Medium Control through
management,
Erosion control
Medium to Low
replaced topsoil and
rehabilitated roads
Hydrocarbon pollution
measures, remedy,
design measures,
monitoring through
rehabilitation.
Removal of mining
infrastructure, Access
roads.
Habitat loss and harm
to flora and fauna,
Fragmentation of the
habitat,
Fauna mortalities,
Presence of alien and
invasive species
resulting in habitat
degradation.
Flora and
Fauna
Medium Control through
management, stop
through destroyal of
invasives, modify
through alternative
method, alien control
measures, traffic
controls
Low
Machinery and
equipment, Cumulative
Ambient noise levels Noise/
Vibrations
Low Noise control,
monitoring.
Low
Hauling and transport,
roads
Cumulative particulate
emissions
Air Quality Low Traffic control
measures,
monitoring through
rehabilitation, dust
control.
Low
No cumulative impact
Surface Water
No impact Ground Water
Cessation of mining Increased
sedimentation within
the wetlands,
Wetland Medium Control through
management, stop
through destroyal of
invasives, modify
Medium to Low
alien species and
water quality
deterioration. Wetland
habitat degradation
through alternative
method, alien control
measures, Remedy.
Mining and processing
plants
Runoff from nearby
rivers resulting in
sedimentation
Aquatic Low None Low
No impact Archaeology
and Heritage
Demolition of surface
infrastructure
Noise due to
increased traffic
volumes
Traffic Low negative None necessary Low
Roads, Cessation of
mining, demolition of
infrastructure
Aesthetic quality and
sense of place
Visual Medium Control through
management;
Rehabilitation
Medium
Cessation of mining,
Communities,
accommodation, offices.
Dependency on mine
for sustaining local
economy
Increased social
pathologies
Socio-
economic
Medium to High Avoidance (hiring of
illegal immigrants
and child labour);
Control through
management;
Increase Awareness
through training,
campaigning and
skills development;
design measures;
traffic control
measure; control
Medium
through access
monitoring.
No further impact Geology Closure Phase
No further impact Topography
No further impact Waste
Management
Bare, compacted and
sterile areas
Soil erosion, water
erosion,
Loss of land capability
Loss of land use
Soil and land
capability
Medium to low Rehabilitation;
Control through
monitoring, design
measures, remedy.
Low negative
Rehabilitation sites,
demolished
infrastructure, trenches.
Cumulative Flora and
Fauna
Medium Rehabilitation;
Monitor through
rehabilitation, control
through
management.
Low
No impact Vibrations
Decommissioning
activities, Transport and
hauling, Roads.
Cumulative particulate
emissions and NOX
emissions
Air Quality Low Traffic control
measures,
monitoring through
rehabilitation, dust
control.
Low
No further impact Surface Water
Defunct tailing dam,
underground blasting
activity, backfilling
Potential surface
decant, Long term
quality of seepage
from the tailings
Ground Water Medium Monitoring, modify
through alternative
method.
Medium - Low
storage facilities
Rehabilitation Wetland Habitat
Degradation
Wetland Medium to low
negative
Rehabilitation,
Avoidance; Control
through
management; design
measures.
No further Impact Aquatic
No further Impact Archaeology
and Heritage
No further Impact Noise
No negative impact there will be
improvement in traffic
post operational
phase
Traffic
Aesthetic Value and
sense of place
Visual Medium Control;
Rehabilitation
Communities,
accommodation, offices,
stores.
Dependency on mine
for sustaining local
economy
Increased social
pathologies
Socio-
Economic
Medium Avoidance (hiring of
illegal immigrants
and child labour);
Control through
management;
Increase Awareness
through training,
campaigning and
skills development;
design measures;
traffic control
measure; control
through access
monitoring.
The supporting impact assessment conducted by the EAP must be attached as an appendix, marked Appendix 2
j) Summary of specialist reports.
(This summary must be completed if any specialist reports informed the impact assessment and final site layout process and must be in the following tabular
form):-
LIST OFSTUDIES UNDERTAKEN
RECOMMENDATIONS OF SPECIALIST REPORTS
SPECIALIST RECOMMENDATIONS THAT HAVE BEEN INCLUDED IN THE EIA REPORT
(Mark with an X where applicable)
REFERENCE TO APPLICABLE SECTION OF REPORT WHERE SPECIALIST RECOMMENDATIONS HAVE BEEN INCLUDED.
Vibrations It is strongly discouraged to commence blasting operations closer than
250m to occupied structures, as the ground vibrations may be very
disturbing to the community. Indeed, if large enough charges are used,
the ground vibrations may cause damage to structures.
Because of the potential for exceeding acceptable limits with respect to
ground vibration, it is strongly advised that a comprehensive monitoring
programme be instituted to measure ground vibration levels, according to
X
the BS 7385-2:1993 standard.
There are no legal requirements in South Africa for blasting, nor is there
an official protocol regarding frequency of measurement. It is therefore
suggested to monitor the ground vibrations at the sites mentioned when
blasting near them, with the intention being to provide feedback to the
blasters regarding the measured vibration levels. This information may
guide them in designing further blasts in the area.
Air Quality • It is recommended that mitigation measures for the proposed
project be focused on the unpaved haul roads facilitating the transport of
Topsoil, Waste Rock, RoM and product off site. This should be
implemented for Scenario 1, 2 and 3. A control efficiency of 75% through
watering can be achieved for onsite haul roads.
• It is recommended for crushing activities, specifically at the
relative processing plants, that mitigation be managed by means of
enclosing the crusher. 50% control efficiency can be achieved from
enclosing a crusher with a crusher hood.
• It is recommended for materials handling activities, specifically
conveying ore at the Moddergaat Plant to the stockpile and subsequent
loading for external
X
Ecological
Recommendations: Acacia tortilis – Ziziphus mucronata – Peltophorum
africanum Woodland
Considering that the area occurs in between degraded areas the
proposed mining development can be supported in this vegetation unit
X
provided that strict mitigation measures are implemented. Mitigation
measures needed for the development will be discussed under
Recommendations and Management Strategies for Flora
Recommendations: Acacia tortilis – Acacia nilotica Woodland
The mining development can be supported in this vegetation unit. Specific
mitigation measures would be needed considering the pristine state of the
vegetation in general. It is recommended that a section of this woodland
area be conserved adjacent to the drainage channel (flood line zone)
Recommendations: Dense Knob thorn Thickets
Development of the opencast mining development and infrastructure can
be supported in the area, especially considering the encroached state of
the vegetation.
General Recommendations: Old Fields
The proposed activities can be supported in both areas, although
mitigation measures are needed in some areas. The mitigation measures
and recommendations for both major areas are discussed later in the
report.
Recommendations: Rocky Outcrops and Regions
Preferably no development should occur on this high sensitivity rocky
areas. The impact on these areas will be low considering that none of the
proposed activities are planned in the rocky areas and subsequently no
impact rating was considered necessary.
General Recommendations: Degraded Bushveld
The proposed activities can be supported in the degraded areas.
Groundwater
In the case of groundwater the quality thereof is less variable than that of
surface water and can therefore accommodate lower sampling
frequencies. It is therefore recommended that groundwater samples be
taken on a 3-monthly basis if no formal permit conditions are specified
The following data capture protocols are recommended to be considered
during the groundwater monitoring at Cronimet upon commencement of
operations.
a) Monitoring / Sampling Technique
b) Sample Preservation / Submission to Laboratory
c) Variables to be analysed: It is recommended that consideration be
given to the analyses of the groundwater for the following water quality
variables: pH, Electrical Conductivity (EC), Total Dissolved Solids (TDS),
Calcium as Ca, Magnesium as Mg, Sodium as Na, Potassium as K, Total
Alkalinity as HCO3, Chloride as Cl, Sulphate as SO4, Fluorite as F, Iron
as Fe, Manganese as Mn and Aluminium as Al.
d) Database Entry and Backup: In order to ensure that accurate and fast
decisions can be taken, it is recommended that an environmental
monitoring database be used, that allows for complex queries and which
facilitates seamless transformation of data into reports and maps. The
electronic storage of data is thus of utmost importance. The database
should typically have full GIS capabilities and hold data in such a manner
that it can easily be accessed.
X
Surface water and storm
water management
• Contain all dirty runoff from the TSF in a system compliant with
Regulation GN704 and return all process water to the process plant
system. This will require inter alia:
o A RWD with sufficient capacity and liner system
o Upgraded seepage channels around the toe of the TSF
o Sediment trap facilities to facilitate effective maintenance and
ensure serviceability of structures
• Improve the separation of clean and dirty water especially around
the TSF and contractor’s yard areas
o Clean runoff from the solar panel area currently comes into
contact with dirty water seepage from the RWD and the channel and berm
system must be upgraded or rerouted
o This may include the option to include the runoff from the solar
panel area with the rest of the dirty storm water system
• Contain all affected runoff from the disturbed areas with a system
compliant with legislation.
o Construct a SWD with sufficient capacity and liner system
o Upgrade and extend the current channel and berm system to
improve drainage
o Sediment trap facilities to facilitate effective maintenance and
ensure serviceability of structures
Furthermore, he monitoring of areas where water is being handled must
continue as per current practice. This will support to quantify the exact
impact of mining on surface water and may be used in future to indicate
the extent and severity of any possible impact.
X
The client is advised and encouraged to take regular water samples at as
many points as possible where surface runoff may pond for some time,
e.g. toe paddocks around soft and hard overburden stockpiles. This will
give an indication of the actual water quality from mining related activities
and disturbance and if acceptable will allow the client to discharge of
excessive runoff instead of constructing facilities to contain all possible
runoff.
. It is imperative that the proposed water management structures at the
TSF is upgraded and the area effectively fenced off in order to address
the concern from the affected parties that livestock can utilise the
contaminated water.
Wetlands
The mining activities should not traverse across the riparian zone forming
the tributary of the Bierspruit and existing impacts should be minimised by
carefully planning access routes. The following mitigation measures apply:
To minimise the disturbance to wetland areas, care should be taken to
locate all construction servitudes outside the wetland areas. The wetland
areas should be fenced off prior to the start of construction to prevent
injudicious driving of heavy machinery within the wetlands. Where the
servitudes do intrude into the wetlands, these areas will need to be ripped
and re-vegetated following the completion of construction.
X
Soil, land-use and capability
Soil management during construction is the key process in determining
X
rehabilitation effectiveness. Therefore soil stripping guidelines should be
developed for the construction crews which define clearly the soil horizons
to be removed and where and how to store them.
The aim of the soil management plan is to provide these guidelines that
should be followed during any phase of land preparation, clearing of
vegetation or general construction activities.
1. Planning of topsoil stripping
2. Supervision during topsoil stripping
3. Timing of topsoil stripping
4. Strip and replace in one action wherever possible
5. Locate soil stockpiles so that re-handling of soil is minimised
6. Ensure free draining location
7. Minimise compaction during stockpile creation
Cumulative impacts are related to increase in the surface footprint. These
can be reduced by keeping the footprint minimised where possible and
strictly following soil management measures pertaining to topsoil stripping,
stockpiling and conservation of the soil quality of topsoil stockpiles.
Noise
Due to the low significance of the noise impact the application of specific
noise mitigation measures is not required. However, the following
recommendations concerning good engineering practice are made:
• All diesel powered equipment must be of high quality and well
maintained
X
• Maintenance must be regular, schedules adhered to and include
the exhaust and intake mufflers of engines
• Maintenance must include a sound check of the equipment
• During operating conditions changes in the perceived noise
characteristics must result it being withdrawn for maintenance/repairs
Heritage
• It is recommended that a heritage resources management plan
must be developed for managing the heritage resources in the study area
during construction and operation of the development. This can include
basic training for construction staff on possible finds, action steps for
mitigation measures and communication routes to follow in the case of a
discovery.
• It is recommended that a heritage audit report is compiled
together with the heritage management plan that will include the status
quo of sites previously identified.
• According to the paleontological map the paleontological
sensitivity of the area is insignificant and according to SAHRIS no further
studies are required.
• Any change to the current layout will have to be assessed by an
archaeologist/heritage specialist.
X
Visual
From the discussions and assessment in the report it is clear that the
proposed mining amendment will be located within an area that already
contains similar mining activities and structures. The views from the
X
nearest sensitive viewers already include the existing mining structures
and activities. However, a higher visual exposure would result as the
proposed amendment activities and structures are nearer that the existing
ones. This higher exposure should however not prevent environmental
authorization. From a visual perspective, it therefore appears that there
are no logical reason that environmental authorization could not be
granted.
Social In order to enhance the benefits of employment creation for these
communities, it is recommended that the measures be implemented as
follows:
■ In order to ensure that employment practices comply with
TCMM’s local recruitment policy, it is recommended that recruitment be
coordinated through the local Department of Labour (DoL) rather than on-
site. A registry should be kept at the local DoL offices where job-seeking
individuals can document their relevant qualifications, work experience
and contact details;
■ If required, the local resident status of applicants should be
verified in consultation with community representatives;
■ In order to promote the creation of employment opportunities for
women and youth, it is recommended 10% of local employment
opportunities be reserved for women and younger persons, respectively.
These positions may only be filled with persons outside of these
categories if it can be demonstrated that no suitable persons are recorded
in the skills registry to fill these positions. The performance indicator for
the promotion of employment of women and youth would be the number
of local women and persons
X
TCMM’s local recruitment policy, it is recommended that recruitment be
coordinated through the local Department of Labour (DoL) rather than on-
site. A registry should be kept at the local DoL offices where job-seeking
individuals can document their relevant qualifications, work experience
and contact details;
If required, the local resident status of applicants should be
verified in consultation with community representatives;
In order to promote the creation of employment opportunities for
women and youth, it is recommended 10% of local employment
opportunities be reserved for women and younger persons,
respectively. These positions may only be filled with persons
outside of these categories if it can be demonstrated that no
suitable persons are recorded in the skills registry to fill these
positions. The performance indicator for the promotion of
employment of women and youth would be the number of local
women and persons under the age of 35 who are employed in the
construction phase of the project;
Establish a monitoring system to ensure that the Contractor
honours the specified employment policy;
Where possible use labour-intensive methods of construction; and
Provide training and upskilling to contract employees.
It is recommended that the mitigation and enhancement measures
included in the report be incorporated into the Environmental Management
Plan (EMP) for the mine and, where relevant, into the contract conditions
to be issued to the contractors. Measures must also be put in place to
monitor and assess implementation of these mitigation measures and to
take corrective action where necessary.
Potential linkages and synergies with local and regional development
planning:
An influx of workers and job-seekers into the area could contribute toward
the spread of HIV/AIDS, and that this risk could be mitigated through an
awareness and support campaign. It is strongly recommended that such
a campaign be aligned with the activities of Thabang Children’s Project,
which has extensive experience of working in the area and of the specific
challenges faced by its inhabitants
Attach copies of Specialist Reports as appendices
k)
Environmental impact statement
(i) Summary of the key findings of the environmental impact assessment;
The leaching of contaminants to surface and groundwater from waste rock that has been
backfilled has been identified as a potential impact. These contaminants may include
chromium, manganese and nickel. The significance of the impact will depend on the
extent to which there are receptors (such as ecosystems, communities, farmers) whom
are reliant on surface and/or groundwater for their livelihoods, as well as the fate and
transport of these contaminants within the surface and groundwater. Based on the
waste classification, the impact can be mitigated through appropriate construction and
management of the waste facilities.
The proposed additional mining and processing activities at Thaba Cronimet Chrome
Mine will definitely impact on the flora and fauna of the area. Vegetation clearing and
topsoil stripping will have the most definite and permanent direct negative impact on the
flora and fauna of the area during the construction phase of the mine. Considering the
cumulative impacts of the mining phases on the fauna and flora of the area, it can be
concluded that the current degraded state of the vegetation and fauna habitats caused
by the surrounding and on site mining activities, will cause some negative impacts,
although the implementation of a rehabilitation and revegetation plan will allow the
vegetation to recover over time and the fauna to return to the area. The mining
development can be considered as viable as a result of the fragmented state of the
vegetation and fauna habitats and the degraded state of the ecosystem caused by
nearby villages and other local mining activities
Although the land capability and soil quality of land affected by surface footprint
expansion of mining and processing activities will be compromised, the clayey nature of
soils present in the area reduces its erodibility and makes it more stable for stockpiling
purposes. The proposed opencast mining operations will not impact on any current crop
production and will therefore not affect primary grain production, only livestock farming
activities. As long as soil management measures are followed and land be rehabilitated
to the highest standard possible, it is of the opinion that the activity may be authorised.
From an air quality management perspective, all three scenarios (based on the mining
and development schedules) included as part of the air quality assessment resulted in
simulated impacts within the relative NAAQS and NDCR at all sensitive receptors. With
mitigation measures in place, comprising mainly of dust suppression on haul roads, the
impact areas are significantly reduced than without mitigation. From an air quality
perspective, the proposed additional mining and processing activities and associated
infrastructure can proceed provided the recommended mitigation measures are
implemented
The majority of anticipated impacts on the wetland system at Thaba Cronimet Chrome
Mine can be adequately mitigated and restricted to within the mining rights area. In
addition, the wetland system which will be most impacted by the proposed
developments, the Trollope Wetland, is considered a seriously modified and artificially
maintained wetland system. The impact to this wetland is therefore not considered to be
of high significance. We would therefore suggest that, from a wetland perspective, the
proposed additional mining and processing activities and associated infrastructure may
be authorised, under condition of full implementation of the mitigation measures
proposed in this report.
From a surface water and storm water management perspective, the Thaba Cronimet
Chrome Mine footprint lies on a flat area and the clayey soils are not prone to erosion.
The process used to wash and recover chromite does not contain hazardous chemicals
and there is no risk of acid mine drainage in the natural geological formations.
Additionally the natural vegetation is not sensitive and the water sources are not
declared protected. The closest river is not at risk of pollution even if an unforeseen
storm event or accident occurs. If CCMSA follows the directives in this report and
rectifies the non-compliances currently on site, there is no logical reason why the
environmental authorisation cannot be issued for the proposed additional mining and
processing activities and associated infrastructure
From a geohydrological perspective, the proposed additional mining and processing
activities and associated infrastructure at Thaba Cronimet Chrome Mine could be
authorised, under condition of full implementation of the mitigation measures proposed
in this report as the aquifer units are not classified as sensitive and/or high yielding;
ground water make is a small component of the overall water balance, mining activities
will not influence the surface/groundwater interface in terms of interline or intersection
flow and ore and waste rock classification show a low to very low potential for
deterioration in ground water qualities.
It has been established from an archaeological and heritage perspective, that two sites
will be directly impacted by the proposed additional mining and processing activities and
associated infrastructure at Thaba Cronimet Chrome Mine, namely site one and site two.
If the mitigation measures as per Section 26 are adhered to and based on approval from
SAHRA, it is of the opinion that the development can continue as the impact of the
development on heritage resources will be acceptable after mitigation measures are
implemented successfully prior to the construction phase. If during construction, any
archaeological finds are made
(E.g. graves, stone tools, and skeletal material), the operations must be stopped, and
the archaeologist must be contacted for an assessment of the finds
With regards to impacts from vibrations, structures are unlikely to get damaged,
regardless of blast design, at locations further than 250m to the blasting site. Humans
will get disturbed at 250m, if the charges are more than 150kg. Therefore, in cases
where humans may be disturbed it is recommended to carefully design the blast so as to
limit the explosive charge as much as possible. For sensitive receptors closer than
100m, blasting should be reconsidered as occupant discomfort is highly likely and
structural damage a reasonable possibility. Due to these sensitivities, blasts should be
designed by a person holding a National Certificate in Rock Breaking (qualification ID
62869) or equivalent. A monitoring programme, according to the BS 7385-2:1993
standard, is recommended to measure and evaluate the blasts and may provide further
insights to the actual vibration levels experienced during blasts
The current ambient noise levels generally fall within those recommended in SANS
10103 5. The modelling results indicate that impacts of noise emissions from the Thaba
Cronimet Chrome Mine during all the phase, i.e. construction, above ground and
underground operations will at most be of an insignificant severity. This means that the
total resulting ambient noise levels caused by the noise emissions will still fall within
those recommended by SANS 10103 5. In terms of this document’s guidelines the
expected community reaction to increases in ambient noise levels will at most be ‘little’
with ‘sporadic complains’. The overall the significance of the noise impact caused by
Thaba Cronimet Chrome Mine have been rated as low.
From a visual assessment is clear that the proposed additional mining and processing
activities and associated infrastructure will be located within an area that already
contains similar mining activities and structures. The views from the nearest sensitive
viewers already include the existing mining structures and activities. However, a higher
visual exposure would result as the proposed additional activities and structures are
nearer than the existing infrastructure and activities. This higher exposure would
however not result in much higher rated significant impacts. The qualitative and
quantitative assessment resulted in medium rated impacts for all mining and processing
activities and infrastructure during all phases. After successful rehabilitation, already
starting in the operational phase, the post closure phase will however result in a ‘low’
significance of the impact on the visual resource. From a visual perspective, it therefore
appears that there is no logical reason that environmental authorization could not be
granted.
With regards to socio-economic impacts, if all mitigation measures are implemented
according to the recommendations provided in the specialist report, it is anticipated that
the consequence and/or probability of the majority of the negative impacts will be
reduced. The post-mitigation significance ratings of positive impacts, on the other hand,
are higher than their pre-mitigation ratings, being rated as medium as opposed to low.
However, the most significant cumulative impacts are expected to arise because of the
combined effects of the proposed project and other, existing mining operations in the
area. These cumulative impacts relate to the large-scale rather than site- specific
impacts associated with a concentration of mining projects – namely, their tendency to
dominate the local economy, thereby causing the local economy to become increasingly
dependent on mines that inevitably have a finite lifespan, and their tendency to dominate
the landscape and irrevocably alter an area’s sense of place.
CCMSA realise that long-term economic success can only be achieved through
sustainable operation and their understanding that their business activities can have
social and environmental impacts. In line with CCMSA’s approach and given the legal
framework of South Africa, it is our considered opinion, based on the conclusions of the
specialist studies, that provided that if CCMSA strictly implement all mitigation measures
and monitoring requirements as outlined in Sections 27 and 28 there is no reason why
the authorisation for proposed additional mining and processing facilities at Thaba
Cronimet Chrome Mine should not be granted. It is of our opinion that provided the EMP
is implemented effectively and timeously, the resultant environmental and social impacts
would not be of an unacceptable significance and post closure all residue environmental
and social impacts, other than seepage from the tailings storage facilities and social
pathology impacts as a result of the mine, will be of a low significance.
(ii) Final Site Map
Provide a map at an appropriate scale which superimposes the proposed overall activity and its associated structures and infrastructure on the environmental sensitivities of the preferred site indicating any areas that should be avoided, including buffers .Attach as Appendix 4
(iii) Summary of the positive and negative implications and risks of the proposed activity and identified alternatives;
Geology
Removal of Ore bodies and overburden
Topography
Disturbances or changes to the topography area
Waste and hazardous substances
Potential soil and water contamination, legal non-compliance and lost opportunities for
waste recycling
Soil and Land capability
Soil compaction, soil loss due to wind and water erosion;
Change of land-use from natural to industrial
Soil pollution due to hydrocarbon and cement spillages
sterilisation of the soil resource
Flora and Fauna
Habitat loss and harm to flora and fauna
Fragmentation of the habitat resulting in harm to flora and fauna;
Fauna mortalities and Habitat degradation
Noise/ Vibrations
Human discomfort and structural damage;
New total resulting ambient noise levels elevated above pre-development levels and the
actual increase in ambient noise levels
Air Quality
Cumulative particulate and NO2 emissions
Surface Water
Sheet erosion and dust generation
Potential pollution by hazardous substances
Poor sanitation and poor storm water management
Deterioration in water Quality and decrease in catchment Yield;
Ground Water
Groundwater Availability and groundwater quality
Wetland
Increased sedimentation within the wetlands
Increased turbidity and obstruction of flows,
Increased risk of erosion and water quality deterioration
Aquatic
Destruction / disturbance of the Bierpruit and other rivers in the area
Archaeology and Heritage
Destruction of archaeological and heritage sites
Traffic
Increased traffic flow
Dust generation and noise generation.
Visual
Aesthetic value and sense of place
Socio-economic
Job creation during construction;
Multiplier effect on local economy;
Continued corporate investment in host communities;
Physical intrusion
Increased social pathologies;
Increased pressure on services and resources
l) Proposed impact management objectives and the impact management outcomes for inclusion in the EMPr; (Based on the assessment and where applicable the recommendations from specialist reports, the
recording of proposed impact management objectives, and the impact management outcomes for the
development for inclusion in the EMPr as well as for inclusion as conditions of authorisation.)
The waste management licence report will address all negative environmental impacts as a
result of the residual deposits (tailing waste and waste rock material) on portions of the farm
Middellaagte 382 KQ and Moddergat 389 KQ.
Description of the appropriate objectives, technical/management options and action plans
selected for each environmental impact and action plans will be made.
The impact management objectives will seek to:
1. Prevent and minimise pollution on the environment
2. Rehabilitate the site to its pre-existing land use
CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Impacts Objectives
Inadequate storage of hazardous
substances resulting in potential
soil and water contamination
Eliminate the potential to pollute soil and water resources
Incorrect disposal of wastes
resulting in potential soil and
water contamination
To dispose of waste in a legal and responsible manner and in line
with the duty of care and precautionary principle of waste
management
Lost opportunity for recycling or
re-use
To reduce the disposal of waste in line with the duty of care and
precautionary principles of waste management.
Loss of soil Minimise soil loss through water and wind erosion
Habitat loss and harm to flora
and fauna
Limit habitat loss due to an increase of the mining footprint
Habitat loss and fragmentation
resulting in impact on fauna
Limit habitat loss and thus impact on fauna populations due to an
increase of the mining footprint and unnecessary fragmentation
Impacts Objectives
populations
Fauna mortalities Prevent fauna mortalities as a result of vehicle movement
Presence of alien and invasive
species on site resulting in legal
compliance and habitat
degradation
To manage and control alien species on the mine
Unacceptable levels of vibration
resulting in structural or cosmetic
damage
Reduce ground vibrations to levels where no structural or cosmetic
damage is incurred by nearby structures.
Higher ambient noise levels
Keep ambient noise levels outside of the mineral lease area within
the requirements of SANS 10103
Impacts Objectives
Minimize community reactions to an increase in ambient noise
levels
Detect changes in equipment noise emissions level
Effectively respond to noise complaints
Communities reacting to an
increase in ambient noise levels
Increased dust generation Dust fall in the immediate vicinity of various sources should be less
than 1 200 mg/m2/day.
Dust fall immediately downwind of the discard dump, tailings
storage facility, product and storage piles to be <1 200 mg/m²/day.
For active haul roads on-site of the mine it is recommended that
dustfall in the immediate vicinity be <1 200 mg/m2/day.
Dust fall at sensitive receptors to be <600 mg/m²/day.
Achieve a road efficiency of 75%.
Ground water contamination To prevent contamination of groundwater at the box cuts, shaft
complex, process plant and the tailing dam footprint during the
construction phase.
Inadequate dirty water and clean
water separation resulting in
water and soil contamination
Maintain clean and dirty water separation at all times according to
GN 704 of the NWA
Illegal water uses Obtain authorisation for all water uses
Impacts Objectives
Deterioration of ecological
sensitivity of wetland areas
Avoid activities being undertaken within wetland areas
Eliminate impacts on the ecological sensitivity of wetland areas
Disturbance/damage to
archaeological/heritage artefacts
To comply with the requirements of The National Heritage
Resources Act (Act No 25 of 1999)
Increased traffic flow Minimise the effects of construction vehicles on the traffic flow in
the area
Loss of aesthetic value To minimise the impacts of the proposed operations on the scenic
quality of the visual resource
Job creation (positive) To increase the percentage of the workforce from the local area
To have 10% of local employment opportunities reserved for
women and younger persons
Comply with labour legislation
To improve work opportunities for the local community
To enhance the skills and knowledge of the workforce.
Multiplier effects on the economy
(positive)
Contribute to the local economy
Continued corporate investment
in host communities (positive)
Upliftment of communities where CCMSA operations
Physical intrusion in terms of
disruption in movement patterns
Minimise disruption in movement patterns within the local
community
Impacts Objectives
Physical intrusion in terms of
increased risk to community
health and safety
Reduce risk of proposed operations to community health and safety
Physical intrusion in terms of
community education
Enhance community awareness of forums and procedures in place
Population influx resulting in
increased social pathologies
Reduce social pathologies as a result of the mine expansion
Population influx resulting in
increased pressure on services
Minimal to no increase in the pressure on services and resources
OPERATIONAL PHASE
Impact Objectives
Inadequate environmental
management
Implement and maintain an Environmental Management
System in compliance with the requirements of the ISO 14 001
(2004) South African National Standard as well as with the
requirements of the IFC
Inadequate storage of hazardous
substances resulting in potential soil
Eliminate the potential to pollute soil and water resources
Impact Objectives
and water contamination
Incorrect disposal of wastes
resulting in potential soil and water
contamination
To dispose of waste in a legal and responsible manner and in
line with the duty of care and precautionary principle of waste
management.
Lost opportunity for recycling or re-
use
To reduce the disposal of waste in line with the duty of care and
precautionary principles of waste management.
Loss of soil, soil capability and
fertility, soil pollution and sterilisation
of soil. Land use change from
natural to grazing
Minimise impacts such as erosion, compaction and chemical
pollution of soils.
Habitat loss and harm to flora and
fauna
Limit habitat loss due to an increase of the mining footprint
Impact Objectives
Habitat loss and fragmentation
resulting in impact on fauna
populations
Limit habitat loss and thus impact on fauna populations due to
an increase of the mining footprint and unnecessary
fragmentation
Fauna mortalities Prevent fauna mortalities as a result of vehicle movement and
hunting
Presence of alien and invasive
species on site resulting in legal
compliance and habitat degradation
To manage and control alien species on the mine
Unacceptable levels of vibration
resulting in structural or cosmetic
damage
Reduce ground vibrations to levels where no structural or
cosmetic damage is incurred by nearby structures.
Higher ambient noise levels Keep ambient noise levels outside of the mineral lease area
within the requirements of SANS 10103
Minimize community reactions to an increase in ambient noise
levels
Detect changes in equipment noise emissions level
Effectively respond to noise complaints
Communities reacting to an increase
in ambient noise levels
Increased particulate matter/dust
generation
Dust fall in the immediate vicinity of various sources should be
less than 1 200 mg/m2/day.
Dustfall immediately downwind of the discard dump, tailings
storage facility, product and storage piles to be <1 200
Impact Objectives
mg/m²/day.
For active haul roads on-site of the mine it is recommended that
dustfall in the immediate vicinity be <1 200 mg/m2/day.
Dustfall at sensitive receptors to be <600 mg/m²/day.Deterioration of ecological sensitivity
of wetland areas
Avoid activities being undertaken within wetland areas
Eliminate impacts on the ecological sensitivity of wetland areas
Disturbance/damage to
archaeological/heritage artefacts
To comply with the requirements of The National Heritage
Resources Act (Act No 25 of 1999)
Inadequate dirty water and clean
water separation resulting in water
and soil contamination
Maintain clean and dirty water separation at all times according
to GN 704 of the NWA.
Unknown water use Optimise the use of dirty water
Influx of ground water To not discharge dirty/contaminated water into the environment
Depletion of external users water
resources
To not compromise the supply of ground water to existing users
Impact Objectives
Deterioration of groundwater quality
in the mining section and seepage
into the receiving environment
To not discharge dirty/contaminated water into the environment
Interflow between adjacent mines Effectively maintain records should water flow or be pumped to
adjacent sections
Potential pollution from tailings
storage facility
Minimise impact on ground water
Increased traffic flow
Loss of aesthetic value To minimise the impacts of the proposed operations on the
scenic quality of the visual resource
Job creation (positive) To increase the percentage of the workforce from the local area
To have 10% of local employment opportunities reserved for
women and younger persons
Comply with labour legislation
To improve work opportunities for the local community
To enhance the skills and knowledge of the workforce.
Multiplier effects on the economy
(positive)
Contribute to the local economy
Dependency on the mine for
sustaining local economy
Reduce dependency on mine in event of reducing production or
down scaling
Continued corporate investment in
host communities
Upliftment of communities where CCMSA operations
Physical intrusion in terms of
disruption in movement patterns
Minimise disruption in movement patterns within the local
community
Population influx resulting in
increased social pathologies
Reduce social pathologies as a result of the mine expansion
Impact Objectives
Population influx resulting in
increased pressure on services and
resources
Minimal to no increase in the pressure on services and
resources
DECOMMISSIONING AND REHABILITATION PHASE
Components Objectives
Inadequate environmental
management
Implement and maintain an Environmental Management
System in compliance with the requirements of the ISO 14
001 (2004) South African National Standard as well as with
the requirements of the IFC
Inadequate storage of hazardous
substances resulting in potential soil
and water contamination
Eliminate the potential to pollute soil and water resources
Incorrect disposal of wastes resulting
in potential soil and water
contamination
To dispose of waste in a legal and responsible manner and in
line with the duty of care and precautionary principle of waste
management.
Loss of soil, soil capability and fertility,
soil pollution and sterilisation of soil.
Land use change from natural to
grazing
Minimise compaction and erosion of soils by backfilling and
rehabilitating correctly
Presence of alien and invasive
species on site resulting in legal
compliance and habitat degradation
To manage and control alien species on the mine
Fauna mortalities Prevent fauna mortalities as a result of vehicle movement and
hunting
Components Objectives
Higher ambient noise levels Keep ambient noise levels outside of the mineral lease area
within the requirements of SANS 10103
Minimize community reactions to an increase in ambient noise
levels
Detect changes in equipment noise emissions level
Effectively respond to noise complaints
Communities reacting to an increase
in ambient noise levels
Increased particulate matter/dust
generation
Dust fall in the immediate vicinity of various sources should be
less than 1 200 mg/m2/day.
Dust fall immediately downwind of the discard dump, tailings
storage facility, product and storage piles to be <1 200
mg/m²/day.
For active haul roads on-site of the mine it is recommended
that dustfall in the immediate vicinity be <1 200 mg/m2/day.
Dustfall at sensitive receptors to be <600 mg/m²/day.
Road efficiency of 75%
Soil and water pollution Minimise impacts to the surface water during
decommissioning phase
Influx of ground water To not discharge dirty/contaminated water into the
environment
Depletion of external users water
resources
To not compromise the supply of ground water to existing
users
Deterioration of groundwater quality in
the mining section and seepage into
the receiving environment
To not discharge dirty/contaminated water into the
environment
Interflow between adjacent mines Effectively maintain records should water flow or be pumped
to adjacent sections
Potential pollution from tailings Minimise impact on ground water
Components Objectives
storage facility
Loss of aesthetic value To minimise the impacts of the operations on the scenic
quality of the visual resource
Population influx resulting in increased
social pathologies
Reduce social pathologies
Dependency on the mine for
sustaining local economy
Reduce dependence on mine in event of reducing production
or down scaling
CLOSURE AND POST CLOSURE PHASE
Impact Objectives
Inadequate environmental
management
Implement and maintain an Environmental Management
System in compliance with the requirements of the ISO 14 001
(2004) South African National Standard as well as with the
requirements of the IFC
Unacceptable environmental impacts
during and post closure
To eliminate unacceptable environmental impacts and to
minimise risk and liability
Soil erosion, especially water erosion
because of poor infiltration of rain due
to the compaction.
Loss of land capability
To rip, vegetate and ameliorate soils with fertilizer and
compost
Decreased habitat quality and effects
on fauna populations
To rehabilitate all disturbed areas to a suitable post closure
land use and standard as agreed with the landowners
Impact Objectives
Increased particulate matter/dust
generation
Dustfall in the immediate vicinity of various sources should be
less than 1 200 mg/m2/day.
Dustfall immediately downwind of the discard dump, tailings
storage facility, product and storage piles to be <1 200
mg/m²/day.
For active haul roads on-site of the mine it is recommended
that dustfall in the immediate vicinity be <1 200 mg/m2/day.
Dustfall at sensitive receptors to be <600 mg/m²/day.
Road efficiency of 75%
Ground water deterioration To stabilize the alternative water supply to external users
whose groundwater resources have been impacted and to
prevent any migration of polluted water from the mining
sections and the tailing dam
Loss of aesthetic value To minimise the impacts of the proposed operations on the
scenic quality of the visual resource
m) Final proposed alternatives.
(Provide an explanation for the final layout of the infrastructure and activities on the overall site as shown
on the final site map together with the reasons why they are the final proposed alternatives which respond
to the impact management measures, avoidance, and mitigation measures identified through the
assessment)
Refer to annexure A for the proposed site layout plan.
n) Aspects for inclusion as conditions of Authorisation. (Any aspects which have not
formed part of the EMPr that must be made conditions of the Environmental Authorisation)
The operational activities and relevant rehabilitation of disturbed areas should be monitored
against the approved EMPr, the Environmental Authorization (once issued) and all other
environmental legislation.
Relevant conditions to be adhered to include:
- The Tailings Storage Facility and associated structures and infrastructures must be well
maintained
- The tailings and waste rock dumps as well as quantities should be monitored on a
regular basis
- - A properly qualified person should be appointed to manage the TSF
- The EMPr should be binding on all managers and contractors operating/ utilizing the
site.
o) Description of any assumptions, uncertainties and gaps in knowledge. (Which
relate to the assessment and mitigation measures proposed)
The processes of investigation which have led to the production of this report, harbours several
assumptions, which include the following:
All information provided by CCMSA to Worley Parsons RSA was correct and valid at the
time that it was provided;
The mining schedule used in the assessment of impacts was the schedule that was
approved by CCMSA on the 11 June 2015.
The public received a fair and reoccurring opportunity to participate in the EIA process,
through the provision of public participation timeframes stipulated in the Regulations;
The need and desirability was based on strategic national, provincial and local plans and
policies which reflect the interests of both statutory and public viewpoints;
The information provided by specialists is accurate and unbiased;
Soil, Land Use and Capability Specialist Study
The scope of the work done is as per the areas outlined
Access to a portion of land belonging to the Sebilong CPA was denied for the purposes
of the site visit. Properties of land in this area has been derived with digital soil mapping
techniques;
A portion of land to the southern end of the subject area is mainly occupied by human
settlement and survey points could only be evaluated at much lower density than the
surrounding areas;
The study does not include land contamination assessment of the areas currently being
mined and in close vicinity to the mining areas. Metal analysis of soil was only for the
purposes of determining current baseline values of natural veld conditions.
Ecological Specialist Study
In order to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of the flora and fauna
of the study area, surveys should ideally be replicated over several seasons and over a
number of years. However, due to project time constraints such long-term studies are
not feasible and this floral study was conducted over two seasons;
The large study area did not allow for the finer level of assessment that can be obtained
in smaller study areas. Therefore, data collection in this study relied heavily on data from
representative, homogenous sections of vegetation units, as well as general
observations, aerial photograph analysis, generic data and a desktop analysis;
Visibility proved to be a constraint in encroached areas where plant species might have
been missed beneath the densely overgrown and obstructed by surface vegetation
Thus, even though it might be assumed that survey findings are representative of the
ecosystem of the project area, it should be stated that the possibility exists that individual
plants species might have been missed due to the nature of the terrain (dense
vegetation). Therefore, maintaining due cognisance of the integrity and accuracy of the
ecological survey, it should be stated that the ecological resources identified during the
study do not necessarily represent all the ecological resources present on the property.
Vibration Specialist Study
The composition of the ground has an effect on the severity of the vibration propagation
due to blasting. As chrome is mined in hard rock, the worst case “hard rock” parameters
were selected as further detailed in section 4.2 of the Vibration Specialist Report in
Appendix 3.
Locations 8, 11 and 18 as outlined in the Vibration Specialist Report were not measured
due to being very close in proximity to points 7, therefore negating the need for separate
measurements. For a similar reason, location 16 and 19 was not measured, due to its
proximity to location 9. Location 15 was found to be inaccessible. As it lies between
locations 8 and 12, the average peak particle velocity of these two locations were used
as an estimate to the background peak particle velocity of 15.
Air Quality Specialist Study
No meteorological data are available for the immediate area with the nearest
meteorological station to site located at Thabazimbi, 27 km to the north. For dispersion
simulations, a minimum of three years of meteorological data is required. MM5 data for
the study region was used for the period of January 2011 to December 2013;
The mining schedule used in the assessment of impacts was the schedule that was
approved by CCMSA on the 11 June 2015. It however can be noted that the changes to
the mining schedule subsequent to the finalisation of the air quality model and impact
assessment does not result in a significant change to results simulated in the air quality
model. This change in schedule does not result in a new ‘worst case’ scenario on which
the model is based and we are of the opinion that the “worst case” scenarios have been
investigated and that Receptor 4 remains the most effected, whether using the old
mining schedule or the new one.
Current operating conditions were included in the 2010 Air Quality Assessment. These
simulations are considered still relevant and correct, thus only approved opencast,
proposed opencast and post 2030 underground operations are included in this
assessment
No ambient monitored concentration data are available for the site (PM10 and PM2.5);
The impact assessment was limited to airborne particulates as well as gaseous
pollutants from blasting and vehicle exhaust emissions (including Total Suspended
Particles, PM10 and PM 2.5, NOx and SO2);
Gaseous emissions from vehicle exhaust include NO2 and SO2. All NOx was assumed
to be NO2 as a conservative approach;
It was provided that cartridge explosives are planned for in-stope, with Anfex for
development in the conventional mining sections and emulsion for all the mechanised
sections. The amount of explosive used per blast was not provided and information from
similar operations was used;
Only diesel fuel is included in this assessment and assumed to be used by vehicles in
both the proposed underground (trackless – North section) and opencast operations;
Vehicle tailpipe emissions were calculated on generic fuel use parameters for different
diesel powered vehicles operating at the proposed site. It was assumed that the sulphur
content of the fuel used is 50 parts per billion, or 0.05%;
Opencast haul trucks (to transport overburden and ore) are assumed to have a 40 tonne
load-carrying capacity. Haul trucks transporting product off-site are assumed to have a
40 tonne load-carrying capacity;
Since it is a proposed mine, no site specific particle size fraction data for the various
sources were available and use was made of information obtained from the existing
mines in the region and from available EIAs;
The dispersion model (AERMOD) cannot compute real time mining processes, therefore
average mining process throughputs were utilised. Thus even though the nature of the
open pit mining operations (pit utilisation and roads) change over the life of mine, the
proposed open pit mining area was modelled to reflect the worst case condition (i.e.
resulting in the highest impacts);
Routine emissions for the proposed operations were simulated – based on maximum
mine production rates. Atmospheric releases occurring as a result of non-routine
conditions were not accounted for;
All on-site roads in use and surface activities were indicated by the client. These were
digitised from a site layout diagram, which was provided by the client. It is assumed that
this information is accurate and correct;
Crushing activities are assumed to include primary, secondary and tertiary crushing;
Two underground exhaust vents were modelled (responsible for majority of underground
emissions), each releasing 300 m³/s of air and having a release height of 4.5 meters;
Detailed information for underground emissions was not available. It is assumed that
each vent’s emissions will comply with the Mine Health and Safety Regulations limit
value for the relative pollutants (10 mg/m³ for PM10, 3 mg/m³ for PM2. 5, 5 mg/m³ for
both NO2 and SO2);
The amount of surface area available to wind erosion for all stockpiles was assumed to
be 100% availability. This is a conservative approach and emissions from these sources
will in reality be lower;
It has been provided that a maximum production rate for the mine will be 75 000 t/m
month of product from underground mining and 30 000 t/m of product from opencast
mining. It was provided that opencast operations and underground operations will not
occur simultaneously;
A strip ratio of 1:3.5 (ore: waste-rock) was provided by the client. This ratio is assumed
accurate and correct for the current assessment of proposed opencast operations;
A strip ratio of 2.3:1 (ore: waste-rock) was used in the 2010 assessment for underground
operations at Cronimet. This ratio is assumed accurate and correct for the current
assessment of proposed underground operations;
It was assumed that the opencast benches/active areas for drilling and blasting would be
the same dimensions as included in the 2010 Air Quality Assessment - 4000 m². It was
also assumed blasting would take place once a day, five days a week for open cast
operations.
Surface Water Specialist Study
This study excludes any underground operations and ground water studies;
The same hydrological parameters used in the 2010 study are used in this report;
The area drains overland mainly to the north-west and surface water originating from the
Northern Platinum – Zondereinde Mine, south of the Thaba Cronimet Chrome Mine
operation, may have an impact on the surface water at Thaba Cronimet Chrome Mine.
The Zondereinde Mine return water dam below their tailing dams lies directly in the
drainage channel which runs through Thaba Cronimet Chrome Mine and any spillage
may have an impact on the surface water regime at the mine. As it is highly
unpredictable and outside the control of CCMSA, the possibility is excluded from this
study;
The operational status of the sewage facility is excluded from this study;
Implementation of a waste policy and efficiency of the water management structures at
the waste management site and salvage yard to prevent surface water pollution is
excluded from this study;
Ground Water Specialist Study
Since no ground water use changes took place in the immediate surroundings of the
mining lease area, the hydro census data of the previous studies were used. It is
assumed that no further development of ground water abstraction will take place within
500m of mining activities.
The mining schedule used in the assessment of impacts was the schedule that was
approved by CCMSA on the 11 June 2015. It however can be noted that although the
changes to the mining schedule subsequent to the finalisation of the ground water model
and impact assessment will result in changes to the outcome of the ground water model,
we are of the opinion that there will be an insignificant change to the impact on ground
water reserves.
Sufficient data were generated to show very little seasonality in ground water level
fluctuations.
The WARMS database (used as background check) for the previous study has not
changed since the previous study.
Borehole data used for the baseline study shows very low permeabilities. This
assumption was carried forward and will remain, unless future boreholes yield higher
values.
During previous baseline investigations, some external users did not allow access to
land. These owners were in excess of 1km from site and will not be influenced by mining
activities.
Any pollution plume movement from the tailings dam and associated infrastructure will
be monitored by boreholes to be drilled around the facilities, once commissioned.
Experience shows that geohydrological boreholes must be commissioned only once the
footprint areas have been completed.
As surface infrastructure is added or production rates changed during the Life of Mine,
additional monitoring points will have to be added to ensure full compliance in terms of
ground water monitoring.
Wetland Specialist Study
A number of generally accepted assessment methods were utilised within the current
study for the assessment of the wetland and aquatic habitats on site, namely the WET-
EcoServices (Kotze et al., 2009) and the WET-Health (Macfarlane et al., 2009).
Although there are limitations associated with each of these methods, the methods are
generally accepted and widely applied within environmental impact assessments in
South Africa and are deemed adequate for the purpose of this study;
Reference conditions are unknown. This limits the confidence with which the present
ecological category (PES) is assigned;
While an effort was made to visit every wetland within the study area, not every wetland
boundary was walked. Wetland boundaries were verified in the field through sampling a
number of points along transects running perpendicular to the wetland edge and located
along the wetland edge. The wetland edge was then delineated by interpolating between
sampling points along these transects using aerial imagery, and the wetness signatures
visible on these, as a background image. Further to this, due to the scale of the remote
imagery used (1:10 000 orthophotos and Google Earth Imagery), as well as the
accuracy of the handheld GPS unit used to delineated wetlands in the field, the
delineated wetland boundaries cannot be guaranteed beyond an accuracy of about 20 m
on the ground;
Aquatic ecosystems vary both temporally and spatially. Once-off surveys such as this
are therefore likely to miss substantial ecological information, thus limiting accuracy,
detail and confidence; and
Detailed groundtruthing for the wetland delineation was limited to the study area
boundaries and immediate vicinity. The delineations provided for areas outside the study
area are based on desktop wetland mapping only.
Archaeological And Cultural Heritage Specialist Study
Due to the fact that most cultural remains may occur below surface, the possibility exists
that some features or artefacts may not have been discovered/ recorded during the
survey. Low ground visibility of parts of the study area is due to high vegetation and
impact from previous mining activities, and the possible occurrence of unmarked graves
and other cultural material cannot be excluded. This study did not assess living or
intangible heritage.
Only the surface infrastructure footprint area was surveyed as indicated in the location
map, and not the entire farm. Although the area was surveyed as thoroughly as possible,
it is incumbent upon the developer to stop operations and inform the relevant heritage
agency should further cultural remains, such as stone tool scatters, artefacts, bones or
fossils, be exposed during the process of development. It is assumed that the sites
recorded in 2009 are still intact, but this will have to be verified if development in the
area of the sites will proceed prior to mitigation.
Future changes in layout will require a heritage walk through (of areas not previously
covered) and assessment of the impact on known sites. This report must be read in
conjunction with the study conducted in 2009.
Noise Specialist Study
The following assumptions were made in this noise study:
The sampled ambient noise levels are representative of their environments in terms of
location and time of day- and night-time;
The identified habilitated noise sensitive points were based on visual inspection of
satellite images on Google Earth;
The mining schedule used in the assessment of impacts was the schedule that was
approved by CCMSA on the 11 June 2015. It however can be noted that although the
changes to the mining schedule subsequent to the finalisation of the noise model and
impact assessment will result in changes to the outcome of the model, we are of the
opinion that there will be an insignificant change to the impact resulting from noise
generation.
It was decided to determine the combined above and underground construction noise
emissions, thereby presenting a ‘worst case’ – scenario. However, the operational noise
impacts were considered separately; and
The noise emission levels of equipment and processes, operational procedures (e.g.
work cycles), meteorological, atmospheric and ground conditions used in the
calculations are realistic estimates of the actual conditions;
Wherever uncertainties occurred assumptions were made to rather over- than
underestimate the severity of a noise impact;
The propagation of noise is a very complex process, especially over longer distances
between the source and receiver. The basis on which the calculations were made are
average conditions. On the other hand reliable noise level measurements also depend
on a large number of factors that may have an effect on the results. Consequently the
actually measured noise levels may differ significantly from the calculated values; and
The processing of measurement results provides very useful insights. However, it must
be clearly understood that they can only provide an indication of what the noise level
could have been without the specific noise energy contributions in the time or frequency
dominion.
Visual Specialist Study
Digital terrain modelling makes use of the current publically available topographical data
as supplied by the Land Surveyor General.
It is assumed that the mining will be a 24-hour operations.
The mining schedule used in the assessment of impacts was the schedule that was
approved by CCMSA on the 11 June 2015. It however can be noted that the changes to
the mining schedule subsequent to the finalisation of the visual model and impact
assessment will be insignificant to the impact on ground water reserves.
All portals for underground mining will be built at the same time.
For the visual analysis modeling examples of similar structures were used. It is
assumed that the duration of the decommissioning phase would be less than 10 years
Closure Liability Assessment
The closure cost estimate output is aligned to the Guideline Document for the Evaluation
of the Quantum of Closure Related Financial Provision Provided by a Mine, by the DMR
(January, 2005);
Currency of estimate: South African Rand’s (ZAR);
The closure costs for the site could comprise a number of cost components. This report
only addresses the decommissioning and reclamation costs, equating to an outside
(third party) contractor establishing on-site and conducting reclamation-related work.
Other components such as staffing of the site after decommissioning, the infrastructure
and support services (e.g. power supply, etc.) for this staff as well as workforce matters
such as separation packages, re- training /re-skilling, etc. are outside the scope of this
report;
Based on the above, dedicated contractors would be commissioned to conduct the
demolition and reclamation work on the site. This would inter alia require establishment
costs for the contractors and hence, the allowance for preliminary and general (P&Gs) in
the cost estimate;
Allowance has also been made for third party contractors and consultants to conduct
post-closure care and maintenance work as well as compliance monitoring;
Closure costs have been determined for both the premature forecast and Life of
Mine closure situations:
- Life of Mine closure takes place at a planned date and/or within a time horizon, in
accordance with overall mine planning;
- Premature closure entails immediate closure of a site, representing decommissioning
and reclamation of the site in its present state.
In accordance with the DMR guideline, no cost off-sets due to possible salvage values
were considered and therefor gross reclamation costs are reported; and
Fixed percentages for P&Gs and Contingencies have been applied:
o P&G’s – 6%(Due to high value contract); and
o Contingency – 20% (Due to limited and accuracy of information available).
Construction of the chrome plant expansion has already taken place;
The current end land use is grazing;
Quantities of new infrastructure were taken from available plans, where no data was
available assumptions were made based on similar projects and experience;
Steel and related material from the demolition which has a salvage value will be
stockpiled on site to be sold or auctioned off. However as per the DMR guideline, the
salvage value of the steel and salvageable equipment has not been considered as part
of the closure costing;
All inert building waste will be disposed of on-site (open pit), all non-inert waste will be
removed to a licenced disposal facility;
Andru Mining is the current mining contractor, it was assumed that the contractor will be
responsible to remove his own infrastructure in the event of closure. Cronimet is
however still responsible for the rehabilitation of the footprint area;
Main perimeter fence will remain to sustain the end land use;
It has been assumed that all costs related to closure
p) Reasoned opinion as to whether the proposed activity should or should not be authorised
(i) Reasons why the activity should be authorized or not.
In line with CCMSA’s approach and given the legal framework of South Africa, it is our
considered opinion, based on the conclusions of the specialist studies, that provided that if
CCMSA strictly implement all mitigation measures and monitoring requirements as outlined
in Sections 27 and 28 there is no reason why the authorisation for proposed additional
mining and processing facilities at Thaba Cronimet Chrome Mine should not be granted.
Provided the EMP is implemented effectively and timeously, the resultant environmental and
social impacts would not be of an unacceptable significance and post closure all residue
environmental and social impacts, other than seepage from the tailings storage facilities and
social pathology impacts as a result of the mine, will be of a low significance.
(ii) Conditions that must be included in the authorisation
The operational activities and relevant rehabilitation of disturbed areas should be mon-
itored against the approved EMPr, the Environmental Authorization (once issued) and all
other environmental legislation.
Relevant conditions to be adhered to include:
- The Tailings Storage Facility and associated structures and infrastructures must be well
maintained
- The tailings and waste rock dumps as well as quantities should be monitored on a
regular basis
- A properly qualified person should be appointed to manage the TSF
- The EMPr should be binding on all managers and contractors operating/ utilizing the
site.
(1) Specific conditions to be included into the compilation and approval of EMPr
The content of the EMPr is consistent with the requirements as set out in Regulation
19(4) and information contained in Appendix 4 of the EIA regulations (December 2014)
stated below,
1. (1) An EMPr must comply with section 24N of the Act and include-
(a) details of
(i) the EAP who prepared the EMPr; and
(ii) the expertise of that EAP to prepare an EMPr, including a curriculum vitae;
(b) a detailed description of the aspects of the activity that are covered by the EMPr as
identified by the project description;
(c) a map at an appropriate scale which superimposes the proposed activity, its
associated structures, and infrastructure on the environmental sensitivities of the
preferred site, indicating any areas that any areas that should be avoided, including
buffers;
(d) a description of the impact management objectives, including management
statements, identifying the impacts and risks that need to be avoided, managed and
mitigated as identified through the environmental impact assessment process for all
phases of the development including-
(i) planning and design;
(ii) pre-construction activities;
(iii) construction activities;
(iv) rehabilitation of the environment after construction and where applicable
post closure; and
(v) where relevant, operation activities;
(e) a description and identification of impact management outcomes required for the
aspects contemplated in paragraph (d);
(f) a description of proposed impact management actions, identifying the manner in
which the impact management objectives and outcomes contemplated in paragraphs (d)
and (e) will be achieved, and must, where applicable, include actions to –
(i) avoid, modify, remedy, control or stop any action, activity or process which
causes pollution or environmental degradation;
(ii) comply with any prescribed environmental management standards or
practices;
(iii) comply with any applicable provisions of the Act regarding closure, where
applicable; and
(iv) comply with any provisions of the Act regarding financial provisions for
rehabilitation, where applicable;
(g) the method of monitoring the implementation of the impact management actions
contemplated in paragraph (f);
(h) the frequency of monitoring the implementation of the impact management actions
contemplated in paragraph (f); an indication of the persons who will be responsible for
the implementation of the impact management actions;
(i) the time periods within which the impact management actions contemplated in
paragraph (f) must be implemented;
(j) the mechanism for monitoring compliance with the impact management actions
contemplated in paragraph (f); a program for reporting on compliance, taking into
account the requirements as prescribed by the Regulations;
(k) an environmental awareness plan describing the manner in which-
(i) the applicant intends to inform his or her employees of an environmental risk
which may result from their work; and
(ii) risks must be dealt with in order to avoid pollution or the degradation of the
environment; and
(l) any specific information that may be required by the competent authority.
2. Rehabilitation requirements
The Guidelines for the Rehabilitation of Mined Land (as provided by the South African
Chamber of Mines) states that soil management during construction is the key process
in determining rehabilitation effectiveness and that soil stripping guidelines should be
developed for the construction crews which clearly defines the soil horizons to be
removed and where and how to store them.
Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil is usually executed before the waste dumps are
created in order to preserve topsoil for re-vegetation of the waste dumps. The aim of the
soil management plan is to provide guidelines that should be followed during any phase
of land preparation, clearing of vegetation or general construction activities.
q) Period for which the Environmental Authorisation is required.
Thaba Cronimet Chrome Mine LoM is planned for 29 year. The opencast mining
operations are scheduled for 4 years from 2017 to 2022, while the underground mining
areas will be mined for 21 years. Construction phase of the underground mining areas
will commence from 2020 to 2025, with the operational phase in 2026.
r) Undertaking (Confirm that the undertaking required to meet the requirements of this section is provided at the end of
the EMPr and is applicable to both the Basic assessment report and the Environmental Management
Programme report.)
The undertaking required to meet the requirements of this section is provided at the end of the
EMPr and is applicable to both the Basic assessment report and the Environmental Manage-
ment Programme report.
s) Financial Provision (State the amount that is required to both manage and rehabilitate the environment in
respect of rehabilitation)
(i) Explain how the aforesaid amount was derived.
A quantum of financial rehabilitation for negative environmental impact due to the planned mine
expansion and associated waste deposal at Thaba Cronimet Chrome Mine will be determined
based on the requirements of Chapter 2.4.1 of the Guideline Document for the Evaluation of
Quantum of Closure Related Financial Provision provided by the Mine (DMR, 2005).
The closure cost estimates form part of an authorization process with the DMR and are aligned
to the DMR guideline. This section summarises the calculated closure cost estimates. Closure
cost estimates were calculated for the following closure scenarios:
Premature (Immediate/Unforeseen)
Closure (1-10 Year forecast); and
Life of Mine (LoM) Closure.
The closure cost estimates for the proposed additional mining and processing activities and
associated infrastructure (excluding P&G’s and contingencies) have been estimated to be as
follows:
Premature closure forecast – Year 1 (Y2015): R28 100 million;
Premature closure forecast – Year 2 (Y2016): R99 346 million
Premature closure forecast – Year 3 (Y2017): R173 081 million;
Premature closure forecast – Year 4 (Y2018): R268 294 million;
Premature closure forecast – Year 5 (Y2019): R289 931 million;
Premature closure forecast – Year 6 (Y2020): R327 567 million;
Premature closure forecast – Year 7 (Y2021): R100 640 million;
Premature closure forecast – Year 8 (Y2022): R44 420 million;
Premature closure forecast – Year 9 (Y2023): R65 877 million;
Premature closure forecast – Year 10 (Y2024): R87 061 million;
Life of mine closure liability – (Y2038): R37 539 million
(ii) Confirm that this amount can be provided for from operating expenditure. (Confirm that the amount, is anticipated to be an operating cost and is provided for as such in the
Mining work programme, Financial and Technical Competence Report or Prospecting Work Programme as the case
may be).
It is estimated that a total of R47 299 964.96 will be set aside for rehabilitation of negative environmental impacts.
t) Deviations from the approved scoping report and plan of study.
(i) Deviations from the methodology used in determining the significance of potential environmental impacts and risks.
(Provide a list of activities in respect of which the approved scoping report was deviated from, the reference in this report identifying where the deviation was made, and a brief description of the extent of the deviation).
No deviation have been made from the approved environmental scoping report
(ii) Motivation for the deviation.
No deviation have been made from the approved environmental scoping report
u) Other Information required by the competent Authority
(i) Compliance with the provisions of sections 24(4)(a) and (b) read with section 24 (3) (a) and (7) of the National Environmental Management Act (Act 107 of 1998). the EIA report must include the:-
1) Impact on the socio-economic conditions of any directly affected person. (Provide the results of Investigation, assessment, and evaluation of the impact of the mining, bulk sampling or alluvial diamond prospecting on any directly affected person including the landowner, lawful occupier, or, where applicable, potential beneficiaries of any land restitution claim, attach the investigation report as Appendix 2.19.1 and confirm that the applicable mitigation is reflected in 2.5.3; 2.11.6.and 2.12.herein).
Impacts of the proposed additional mining and processing activities on socio-economic
conditions include the effects of the project on the local economy (including job creation,
multiplier effects on the local economy, etc.); impacts related to the effects of the project
on the physical environment (such as safety impacts arising from increased traffic,
visual, acoustic and air quality impacts, etc.); impacts from the dependency of the
community on the mine and impacts related to an influx of workers and job-seekers
(such as an increase in social pathologies, etc.). With regards to socio-economic
impacts, if all mitigation measures are implemented according to the recommendations
provided in the specialist report, it is anticipated that the consequence and/or probability
of the majority of the negative impacts will be reduced. The post-mitigation significance
ratings of positive impacts, on the other hand, are higher than their pre-mitigation
ratings, being rated as medium as opposed to low.
In light of the above, it is not expected that the proposed development will
unacceptability impact on people’s health and wellness should mitigation be adopted in
full.
2) Impact on any national estate referred to in section 3(2) of the National Heritage Resources Act. (Provide the results of Investigation, assessment, and evaluation of the impact of the mining, bulk sampling or alluvial diamond prospecting on any national estate referred to in section 3(2) of the National Heritage Resources Act, 1999 (Act No. 25 of 1999) with the exception of the national estate contemplated in section 3(2)(i)(vi) and (vii) of that Act, attach the investigation report as Appendix 2.19.2 and confirm that the applicable mitigation is reflected in 2.5.3; 2.11.6.and 2.12.herein).
The combined assessments recorded 5 heritage sites within the proposed
expansion areas. Only two of these will be directly impacted by the proposed
development: Site 1 and 2 (Iron Age and Stone Age Sites) on the farm Zwartkop.
The impacts are as follows:
a) Destruction of heritage sites and depletion of archaeological record of the
area.
b) Destruction of heritage sites during construction.
The impact on the identified sites will result from pre-construction and
construction activities
The impact will be MODERATE on a local scale and it will be a long term impact
after mitigation.
v) Other matters required in terms of sections 24(4)(a) and (b) of the Act.
(the EAP managing the application must provide the competent authority with detailed, written proof of an investigation as required by section 24(4)(b)(i) of the Act and motivation if no reasonable or feasible alternatives, as contemplated in sub-regulation 22(2)(h), exist. The EAP must attach such motivation as Appendix 4).
Cronimet Chrome Mining SA (Pty) Ltd is a holder of a Mining Right granted on portion
1 of the farm Middellaagte 382 KQ, portion 1 of the farm Elandskuil 378 KQ, portion 8
of the farm Roodedam 368 KQ, remaining extent of the farm Moddergat 389 KQ, and
portion 6, 18, 21 of the farm Zwartkop 369 KQ and portion 1 and the remaining extent
of the farm Schildpadnest 385 KQ.
The only preferred site for the proposed extension of TSF is north of the existing TSF
and near the processing plant area on portion 1 of the farm Middellaagte 382 KQ.
Furthermore, the proposed TSF on the remaining extent of the farm Moddergat 389 KQ
will also be in close proximity to the processing plant facility.
Various disposal options have been considered for the TSF. These include “paste
slurry” deposition, and conventional thickened slurry deposition. As the conventional
thickened slurry deposition technique is more commonly used and as the
environmental conditions is suitable for this method it was therefore selected.
The proposed locations of the waste rock dumps were considered to be near the mined-
out areas for ease of backfilling during rehabilitation and closure phase of the mine. The
proposed sites are therefore regarded as the preferred sites and alternative sites were
not considered. Moreover, site alternatives were not considered due to lack of surface
depositional footprint area for the waste.
PART BENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME REPORT
1) Draft environmental management programme. a) Details of the EAP,
(Confirm that the requirement for the provision of the details and expertise of the EAP are
already included in PART A, section 1(a) herein as required).
The details and expertise of the EAP are already included in PART A, section 1(a) as required
b) Description of the Aspects of the Activity (Confirm that the requirement to describe the aspects of the activity that are covered by the draft environmental management programme is already included in PART A, section (1)(h) herein as required).
The aspects of the activity that are covered by the draft environmental management
programme is already included in PART A, section 1(h)
c) Composite Map
Provide a map (Attached as an Appendix) at an appropriate scale which superimposes the proposed
activity, its associated structures, and infrastructure on the environmental sensitivities of the preferred
site, indicating any areas that any areas that should be avoided, including buffers)
Refer to Annexure A for the mine site layout plan.
d) Description of Impact management objectives including management statement.
(i) Determination of closure objectives. (ensure that the closure objectives are informed by the type of environment described in 2.4 herein)
Closure for the Thaba Cronimet Chrome Mine opencast and underground mining operations
and associated residual deposits will be undertaken in terms of the following principles:
To leave site in a safe state for humans and animals.
To ensure that the water resources (surface and ground) are not affected by both mining
and rehabilitation activities.
To promote indigenous vegetation growth suitable for animals that graze over the
disturbed areas on the site.
Backfilling of all excavated areas with waste rocks, overburden and topsoil material to
adopt a shape similar to its initial state.
Revegetate the tailings storage facility to ensure blending with the surrounding
environment.
(ii) The process for managing any environmental damage, pollution, pumping and treatment of extraneous water or ecological degradation as a result of undertaking a listed activity.
The generation and deposition of the waste rock material and tailing waste on land as detailed
in section 3(d)(ii), associated with Thaba Cronimet Chrome Mine planned expansion of the
operation may result in ecological degradation, environmental damage and pollution.
Potential impacts which have been identified in relation to these activities and have been
assessed for each environmental aspect. In addition to this, mitigation and management
measures have been recommended accordingly as detailed in section 3(g) (viii) of this report.
The mitigation measures were recommended to reduce the significance of the impacts.
Monitoring programmes have also been provided to monitor the potential impacts which will
allow alternative mitigation measures to be implemented if necessary. The construction and
expansion of the TSF and deposition of the waste rock material on site will result in various
impacts such as the loss of topsoil, floral species/vegetation types, and biodiversity.
Sedimentation could also potentially occur due to surface runoff accumulation. Additionally, the
mixing of upstream clean water runoff with dirty water runoff from within infrastructure areas
could potentially result in dirty water reporting to the downstream water catchment. The
locations of all infrastructure placements were selected strategically, taking into consideration
and avoiding ecological sensitivities such as wetlands and streams where possible. Managing
environmental damage within Thaba Cronimet Mining Right area requires the establishment and
implementation of Storm Water Management Plan (attached as an annexure to this report)
outlining clear dirty water and clean water separation channels.
(iii) Potential risk of Acid Mine Drainage. (Indicate whether or not the mining can result in acid mine drainage).
Mining at Cronimet Thaba Chrome Mine will not result in acid mine drainage.
(iv) Steps taken to investigate, assess, and evaluate the impact of acid mine drainage.
Geochemical investigations of the tailing waste, overburden material, and waste rock material at
Thaba Mine was undertaken by Hydro Science (May, 2015) and Environmental Resources
Management (ERM) (May, 2015). The investigation was carried out in terms of the National
Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) Regulation 635- National norms and standards for
assessment of waste for landfill disposal, and Regulation 636- National norms and standards
for disposal of waste to landfill.
(v) Engineering or mine design solutions to be implemented to avoid or remedy acid mine drainage.
Not applicable No acid mine drainage will be generate at the site.
(vi) Measures that will be put in place to remedy any residual or cumulative impact that may result from acid mine drainage.
Not applicable No acid mine drainage will be generate at the site.
(vii) Volumes and rate of water use required for the mining, trenching or bulk sampling operation.
Approximately 3 423 m3 of input makeup water is required for the mine`s daily operations.
(viii) Has a water use licence has been applied for?
Yes. An Integrated Water Use Licence Application (IWULA) for Thaba Cronimet Chrome Mine
planned expansion of the operation has been lodged with the Department of Water and
Sanitation (DWS) North West Regional Officer on the 29th of March 2016. Refer to the Annexure
for proof of application and acknowledgment of application by DWS.
(ix) Impacts to be mitigated in their respective phases
Measures to rehabilitate the environment affected by the undertaking of any listed activityACTIVITIES
(as listed in 2.11.1)
PHASE
Of operation in which
activity will take place.
State;
Planning and design,
Pre-Construction’
Construction,
Operational,
Rehabilitation,
Closure, Post closure.
SIZE AND SCALE of disturbance(volumes,
tonnages and
hectares or
m²)
MITIGATION MEASURES
(describe how each of the
recommendations in herein will
remedy the cause of pollution or
degradation and migration of
pollutants)
COMPLIANCE WITH STANDARDS
(A description of how each
of the recommendations
herein will comply with any
prescribed environmental
management standards or
practices that have been
identified by Competent
Authorities)
TIME PERIOD FOR IMPLEMENTATION
Describe the time period when the
measures in the environmental
management programme must be
implemented Measures must be
implemented when required.
With regard to Rehabilitation specifically
this must take place at the earliest
opportunity. .With regard to Rehabilitation,
therefore state either:-.
Upon cessation of the individual activity
Or.
Upon the cessation of mining, bulk
sampling or alluvial diamond prospecting
as the case may be.
Excavation, stockpiling, channelling and berms
Construction Impact will be slightly mitigated through mitigation measures for flora and fauna and soil management.
NEMA CARA GN R983
Ongoing, post construction and 6 monthly
Disposal of waste on land and Inadequate storage of hazardous substances
Construction • Store all hydrocarbon sources inside bounded areas with impermeable floors. • Filter all surface water from these bounded areas through hydrocarbon management facilities.• Store all hazardous
NEMWA Ongoing
substances (oils, diesel, and chemicals) in containers of sufficient strength and structural integrity to ensure that it is unlikely to burst or leak during ordinary use.• Handle, manage and store all chemicals according to their material safety data sheets which are to be located at all points of storage and where the chemical is used. • Ensure that the surface where oil and diesel is delivered and handled is impermeable and not connected to surface water drainage systems, including storm water drains• Inspect all bunds, tanks and pipework regularly for signs of damage to ensure integrity• Implement a proper and robust vehicle maintenance programme to reduce the risk of spillages of reagents and hydrocarbons during transportation• Separate waste into various categories as defined by the operational procedures to ensure optimal waste recycling and correct disposal• Train all employees and contractors on the separation of waste as defined by the operational procedures
• Treat and dispose of waste as near as possible to the point of production as is technically and environmentally possible• Dispose of hazardous waste at either a permitted H:H or H:h landfill site depending on the waste characteristics and maintain safe disposal certificates.• Dispose of general waste at a permitted general landfill site. Waybills of disposal are to be recorded.• Collect hazardous waste at the stipulated maximum weight or at a minimum frequency of every 90 days whether or not the container is full. • Train all relevant employees in cleaning up of a spillage and ensure that all necessary spill kits containing the correct equipment to clean up spills are made available at strategic points in the plant area• Optimise the recycling, re-use and reduction of both general and hazardous waste
Construction of support facilities and vegetation clearing.
Construction • Use existing roads and minimise new roads. The width of service roads must be minimised as much as possible• Maintain grass cover for as long as possible
NEMA CARA GN R983
Ongoing, Post construction, 6 monthly.
• Erosion control measures must be constructed• Stripped soils should be stockpiled as a berm upslope (majority) and surrounding the disturbed area.• Stripping machinery should be used when soil moisture content is below approximately 8% to limit soil compaction.• Stripping of topsoil should not be done earlier than required.• An intercept drain should be constructed upslope of construction and operational areas, in order to re-direct clean water away.• An intercept drain should possibly be constructed downslope of polluted areas, in order to drain potentially polluted water into a pollution control dam.• Conduct proper chemical waste management to avoid spillage of chemicals• Use tracked vehicles rather than wheeled vehicles due to their lower point loading and slip, thereby minimise compaction;• Soil stockpiles must be sampled, ameliorated (fertilized) and re-vegetated as soon after construction as
possible
Opencast mining, vegetation clearing and construction of surface infrastructure
Construction • Clearly demarcate the development footprint prior to initial site clearance and prevent construction personnel from leaving the demarcated area;• Retain where possible, vegetation between infrastructural elements associated with the project;• Conduct flora species search and rescue efforts before ground clearing begins;• Remove and relocate any plants of botanical or ecological significance (protected species);• Provide upfront and regular environmental training to construction workers to ensure the protection of the habitat, fauna and flora and their sensitivity to conservation;• Where trenches pose a risk to animal safety, ensure that the trench is secured to prevent animals falling in and getting trapped and/or injured;• Avoid the use of poisons for the control of problem animals and where it is necessary obtain approval from the Environmental Officer on type of poison to be used.
NEMA Regulation 543 Section 32
NEMBA Section 56 (1), 57 (1), 57 (2) and 57 (4)
Limpopo Environmental Management Act Schedules 2, 3, 11 and 12
NEMA Regulation 543 Section 32
National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act (NEMBA) Section 56 (1), 57 (1), 57 (2) and 57 (4)
Limpopo Environmental Management Act Schedules 2, 3, 11 and 12
NEMBA Section 56 (1), 57 (1), 57 (2) and 57 (4)NEMA Regulation 543 Section 32
Alien and Invasive Species Regulations
Prior to ground clearing and when required
• Use existing facilities (e.g., access roads, parking lots, graded areas) to the extent possible to minimize the amount of new disturbance;• Establish protective buffers in areas where there is sensitive habitat such as ravines• Avoid all sensitive habitats by construction vehicles and equipment, wherever possible, in order to reduce potential impacts• Do not undertake any activities outside of the defined construction areas and the road servitudes.• In areas where the speed limit tends to be disobeyed, consider installing speed bumps. • Limit or avoid travelling at night as much as possible. • Where possible, position lighting five meters from the roads or paved areas.• Destroy alien invasive plants present, and the seedlings which emerge• Establish and manage an alternative plant cover to limit re-growth and re-invasion. • Institute strict control over materials brought onto site, which should be
(GNR 599 of 2014) as part of the NEMBA
inspected for seeds of noxious plants and steps taken to eradicate these before transport to the site. Routinely fumigate or spray all materials with appropriate low-residual herbicides prior to transport to site or in a quarantine area on site.• Develop a detailed plan for the control of invader fauna species, noxious weeds and invasive plants that could colonize the area as a result of new surface disturbance activities at the site. The plan should address monitoring, weed identification, the manner in which weeds spread, and methods for treating infestations.
Blasting Construction Blasting designed and performed by person holding a National Certificate in Rock Breaking (qualification ID 62869) or equivalent. Inform community of schedule.
Close public roads during blasting.
Community may need to be evacuated based on proximity.
Avoid blasting during quiet hours.
National and Provincial Noise Regulations. SANS 10103
Prior to blasting, duration of blast.
Topsoil and subsoil stripping, Transport
Construction • Apply wet suppression or chemical
Compliance with NEMAQA and with
Ongoing
and hauling. stabilisation on unpaved roads. • Restrict haul trucks to specified haul roads• Reduce unnecessary traffic and strict speed control in areas where speed limits are disobeyed• Stabilise (chemical, rock cladding or vegetative) disturbed soil and early re-vegetation
the South African National Dust Control Regulations
Storm water control, stripping, overburden and berms.
Construction • The laydown and contractor areas must be kept as small as possible;• Ensure berms and structures are constructed around these sites to ensure clean overland flow is directed into the natural drainage channels.• All wetlands and flood lines must be clearly marked and no activity is allowed inside these boundaries.• Natural drainage channels must only be crossed at specific areas and water management structures must be constructed before the road is commissioned.• All laydown areas and construction roads must be ripped and vegetated after the construction phase is complete.• Water emanating from contractor workshops and stores must be directed
NWA GN 704 Prior to construction and ongoing
to a proper hydrocarbon management unit. All other surface water from the contractor area must be collected in a pond inside the boundaries of the contractor yard.• Parking areas for yellow machine must have spill kits and drip trays in-case of leaking vehicles.• No manufacturing and/or maintenance must be done in any area outside the workshops and manufacturing zone.• All topsoil stripped from the contractor area must be stored on topsoil dumps.• Clean overland flow must be directed around the contractor area.
Processing plants, tailings storage facility.
Construction • Manage excess water that accumulates during the construction phase as part of the construction phase water balance.• Construction of the shaft complex where possible is to be undertaken during post winter months. Shaft walls will be sealed off preventing significant inflow into the mine workings after construction.• Discharge all unwanted water accumulating in the excavations into pollution control dams for re-use as soon as possible.
NWA Ongoing
Limit contact time with shaft perimeter and pit floor
Surface infrastructure
Construction • In the case of the unnamed stream the proposed opencast mining operations were adjusted to exclude the wetland from the mining footprint;• In the case of the northern settler dam, the proposed location of the dam was moved to over a 100m from the boundary of the unnamed stream;• Strong emphasis should be placed on the rehabilitation of these areas post opencast mining, and a watercourse resembling the downstream reaches of the Trollope system(I.e. downstream of the tar road) should be re-established across the mined out areas.• All stockpiles extending into the Trollope wetland/riparian habitat should however be adjusted to remain outside the delineated area.• Clearly demarcate all wetland areas as such to alert mining staff on site and where activities take place in close vicinity to wetland habitat, fence off the opencast and surface infrastructure areas so as to prevent machinery and personnel accessing
Section 21 of the NWA
Prior to commencement of activity, when necessary and ongoing.
adjacent wetland areas outside the disturbance footprint.• Educate all mine staff and contractors on the importance and sensitivity of the wetland systems on site• Upgrade the existing crossing over the riparian zone forming the tributary of the Bierspruit with culverts.• Construct wetland crossings as follows:• Wetland crossings must make allowance for flow connectivity across the full wetland system to be maintained. • Install box culverts as opposed to pipe culverts.• No impoundments upstream should be allowed• Erosion protection must be installed on downstream discharge
Storm water control, topsoil and subsoil stripping.
Construction • Comply with the requirements of GN 704 in terms of storm water management and comply with the proposed mitigation measures as outlined in the surface water section and as outlined in the section on flora and fauna management.
NWA Ongoing and when required
Construction of facilities, structures and associated infrastructure.
Construction • Fence off all archaeological sites identified to date in close proximity to the proposed mining and processing areas prior to commencement of
Section 3 of the National Resources Act (Act 25 of 1999)
Prior to construction and ongoing
construction in the area• Include within the training programme, general awareness on archaeological artefacts and the protocol to be established on identification of an artefact. Compile and undertake training on an operational procedure.• Cease work immediately and contact the Archaeological Specialist should an object of archaeological or heritage importance be discovered or suspected to be of importance• Appoint an archaeologist to undertake the necessary recordings and documentation at site two and to obtain a permit from SAHRA prior to the destruction or interference with site one from construction activities. If possible re-route the access road to avoid this site.• Appoint an archaeologist to undertake the necessary recordings and documentation at site one and to obtain a permit from SAHRA prior to the destruction or interference with site one from construction activities.
Construction of access roads,
Construction • Avoid breaking of traffic laws and non-
National road Agency
Ongoing
Hauling and transport
compliance with road signs • Provision of the appropriate traffic signs (warning and directional) to aid with the control of the traffic flow, at the access roads, during the construction phase.• Dust suppression measures will be implemented during the construction phase to reduce dust liberations resultants from traffic.• Construction activities will be restricted to day time hours to prevent noise disturbance during night time.
Construction of surface infrastructure and tailings storage facility
Construction Prevent light pollution by avoiding light spillage outside of the project activity areas, the application of directional lighting, security • lighting that is only activated upon illegal entry in restricted areas• Rehabilitate the tailing storage facilities soon as possible with indigenous vegetation that will blend in with the character of the existing vegetation• Avoid cutting down of trees• If possible, cluster the sewage disposal and electricity generation facilities together with other mining structures in order to reduce
None Once tailings storage facility has been decommissioned, ongoing and when required.
the visual impactCommunities Construction • Maximise and
monitor local recruitment coordinated through the Department of Labour• Promote the employment of women and youth • Avoid hiring illegal immigrants and child labour.• Where possible use labour-intensive methods of construction• Train and increase the skill level of the workforce• Develop and maintain a register of local SMMEs and the types of goods and services provided by them.• Where appropriate SMMEs do not exist, investigate the possibility of launching a training/ skills development initiative to develop local entrepreneurial skills• Where possible, assist communities in responsible investing and savings through a reputable financial institution to take advantage of increasing disposable income• Establish linkages with other institutions involved in skills development and SMME development, such as the community development programme of the local municipality
South African Mining Charter
Prior to commencement of social projects, ongoing and verify every 6 months.
• Take steps to ensure that planned initiatives dovetail with those of other development institutions active in the area, including the district and local government• As far as possible, undertake the selection, design and implementation of development initiatives in collaboration with their intended beneficiaries.• Determine what the communities’ expectations are regarding development• Ensure that diversions and major disturbances to national and provincial roads occurs during low peak times;• When necessary, ensure that local residents are kept informed on an on-going basis of construction progress and when access will be blocked in certain areas• Investigate the establishment of a community forum to serve as a dedicated communication channel with the local population• Implement measures to ensure that these speed restrictions are enforced. Such measures may include monitoring vehicle speeds, erecting speed limit signs and installing speed humps;
• Maintain roads to prevent deterioration of roads surfaces due to heavy vehicle traffic.• Identify measures to manage/promote road safety and traffic control, taking into account the cumulative effects of traffic generated by multiple development projects• Prevent unauthorized access to the mine site through appropriate fencing and security;• Restrict the making of fires by construction workers to areas where tight control can be exerted, or that the making of fires be prohibited.• Increase awareness of the mine’s complaints and grievance procedures and hold feedback sessions with community forums to assess the impact of this programme• implement HIV/AIDS and alcohol abuse campaigns in the communities;• Include HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted infections awareness and prevention programmes as a condition of contract for suppliers and sub-contractors.• Introduce a voluntary counselling and testing programme• Undertake a voluntary HIV/AIDS and
sexually transmitted disease prevalence survey on a regular basis.• Control access at the construction sites to prevent sex workers and petty traders from visiting and/or loitering• Establish formal liaison structures with the local police to monitor local social dynamics during both construction and eventually operation;• Establish and maintain liaison with existing crime control organisations, such as bona fide Community Policing Forums and Farm Watch organisations;• Ensure that contractors prioritise employment of local community members• Maintain strategy of liaising with the local municipality to ensure that expected population influx is taken into account in infrastructure development planning of the Thabazimbi Local Municipality• Where possible, assist local government with the identification of measures to mitigate and/or control the expansion of informal settlements• Frequent monitoring of the broader area to detect the establishment of new
informal settlements or rapid expansion of existing settlements
Excavation,channelling and berms, stockpiling of waste rock residue, tailingsstorage facilities, hauling and transport
Operational • Impact will be mitigated through concurrent opencast rehabilitation as well as stipulated mitigation measures for flora and fauna and soil management.
NEMA CARA GN R983
Prior to construction, ongoing, post construction, 6 monthly.
Disposal of waste on land and Inadequate storage of hazardous substances
Operational • Store all hydrocarbon sources inside bounded areas with impermeable floors. • Filter all surface water from these bounded areas through hydrocarbon management facilities.• Store all hazardous substances (oils, diesel, and chemicals) in containers of sufficient strength and structural integrity to ensure that it is unlikely to burst or leak during ordinary use.• Handle, manage and store all chemicals according to their material safety data sheets which are to be located at all points of storage and where the chemical is used. • Ensure that the surface where oil and diesel is delivered and handled is impermeable and not connected to surface water drainage systems, including storm water drains
The Hazardous substances Act (Act 15 of 1973) and the NWA.
Relevant SANS Standard and NEMWA.
Ongoing
• Inspect all bunds, tanks and pipework regularly for signs of damage to ensure integrity• Implement a proper and robust vehicle maintenance programme to reduce the risk of spillages of reagents and hydrocarbons during transportation• Separate waste into various categories as defined by the operational procedures to ensure optimal waste recycling and correct disposal• Train all employees and contractors on the separation of waste as defined by the operational procedures• Treat and dispose of waste as near as possible to the point of production as is technically and environmentally possible• Dispose of hazardous waste at either a permitted H:H or H:h landfill site depending on the waste characteristics and maintain safe disposal certificates.• Dispose of general waste at a permitted general landfill site. Waybills of disposal are to be recorded.• Collect hazardous waste at the stipulated maximum weight or at a minimum frequency of every 90 days whether or not the
container is full. • Train all relevant employees in cleaning up of a spillage and ensure that all necessary spill kits containing the correct equipment to clean up spills are made available at strategic points in the plant area• Optimise the recycling, re-use and reduction of both general and hazardous waste
Construction of facilities, Stockpiles and berms
Operational • Use existing roads and minimise new roads.• The width of service roads must be minimised as much as possible• Maintain grass cover for as long as possible• Erosion control measures must be constructed• Stripped soils should be stockpiled as a berm upslope (majority) and surrounding the disturbed area.• Stripping machinery should be used when soil moisture content is below approximately 8% to limit soil compaction.• Stripping of topsoil should not be done earlier than required.• An intercept drain should be constructed upslope of construction and
NEMA CARA GN R983
Prior construction, ongoing, post construction, 6 monthly.
operational areas, in order to re-direct clean water away.• An intercept drain should possibly be constructed downslope of polluted areas, in order to drain potentially polluted water into a pollution control dam.• Conduct proper chemical waste management to avoid spillage of chemicals• Use tracked vehicles rather than wheeled vehicles due to their lower point loading and slip, thereby minimise compaction• Soil stockpiles must be sampled, ameliorated (fertilized) and re-vegetated as soon after construction as possible
Opencast operations, tailings storage facilities and surface infrastructure
Operational • Clearly demarcate the development footprint prior to initial site clearance and prevent construction personnel from leaving the demarcated area;• Retain where possible, vegetation between infrastructural elements associated with the project;• Conduct flora species search and rescue efforts before ground clearing begins;• Remove and relocate any plants of botanical or ecological significance (protected species);
NEMA Regulation 543 Section 32
NEMBA Section 56 (1), 57 (1), 57 (2) and 57 (4)
Limpopo Environmental Management Act Schedules 2, 3, 11 and 12
NEMA Regulation 543 Section 32
National Environmental
Prior to ground clearing, prior to construction, when required and ongoing.
• Provide upfront and regular environmental training to construction workers to ensure the protection of the habitat, fauna and flora and their sensitivity to conservation;• Where trenches pose a risk to animal safety, ensure that the trench is secured to prevent animals falling in and getting trapped and/or injured;• Avoid the use of poisons for the control of problem animals and where it is necessary obtain approval from the Environmental Officer on type of poison to be used.• Use existing facilities (e.g., access roads, parking lots, graded areas) to the extent possible to minimize the amount of new disturbance;• Establish protective buffers in areas where there is sensitive habitat such as ravines• Avoid all sensitive habitats by construction vehicles and equipment, wherever possible, in order to reduce potential impacts• Do not undertake any activities outside of the defined construction areas and the road servitudes.• In areas where the
Management Biodiversity Act (NEMBA) Section 56 (1), 57 (1), 57 (2) and 57 (4)
Limpopo Environmental Management Act Schedules 2, 3, 11 and 12
NEMBA Section 56 (1), 57 (1), 57 (2) and 57 (4)NEMA Regulation 543 Section 32
Alien and Invasive Species Regulations (GNR 599 of 2014) as part of the NEMBA
speed limit tends to be disobeyed, consider installing speed bumps. • Limit or avoid travelling at night as much as possible. • Where possible, position lighting five meters from the roads or paved areas.• Destroy alien invasive plants present, and the seedlings which emerge• Establish and manage an alternative plant cover to limit re-growth and re-invasion• Institute strict control over materials brought onto site, which should be inspected for seeds of noxious plants and steps taken to eradicate these before transport to the site. Routinely fumigate or spray all materials with appropriate low-residual herbicides prior to transport to site or in a quarantine area on site.• Develop a detailed plan for the control of invader fauna species, noxious weeds and invasive plants that could colonize the area as a result of new surface disturbance activities at the site. The plan should address monitoring, weed identification, the manner in which weeds spread, and
methods for treating infestations.
Opencast mining, blasting,
Operational • Blasting designed and performed by person holding a National Certificate in Rock Breaking (qualification ID 62869) or equivalent. Inform community of schedule. • Close public roads during blasting. • Community may need to be evacuated based on proximity. • Avoid blasting during quiet hours.
National and provincial noise regulations. SANS 10103
When required
Hauling and transport, opencast mining, vegetation clearing,
Operational • Apply wet suppression or chemical stabilisation on unpaved roads. • Restrict haul trucks to specified haul roads• Reduce unnecessary traffic and strict speed control in areas where speed limits are disobeyed• Stabilise (chemical, rock cladding or vegetative) disturbed soil and early re-vegetation
NEMAQA and the South African Dust Regulations
Ongoing and prior to commencement of conveyor belt.
Mining operations, processing plants, berms, surface infrastructure
Operational • Manage all excess water as part of the operational phase water balance• In the case of proven depletion of water resources, negotiate alternative supplies of water to replace existing usage with affected groundwater users, based on
NWA When required and ongoing
a structured compensation protocol.• Where water is not used during mining, or pumped back to the plant area, disposal must take place in the correct polluted water facility.• Should in the event that water flows naturally or due to pumping between adjacent sections, keep strict records of volumes of water pumped, quality of water pumped, delineation of reservoirs created for the storage of water.• Investigate and implement a ground water abstraction system in the event that an unacceptable impact is identified• Strong emphasis should be placed on the rehabilitation of these areas post opencast mining, and a watercourse resembling the downstream reaches of the Trollope system (i.e. downstream of the tar road) should be re-established across the mined out areas.• All stockpiles extending into the Trollope wetland/riparian habitat should however be adjusted to remain outside the delineated area.• Clearly demarcate all wetland areas as such to alert
mining staff on site and where activities take place in close vicinity to wetland habitat, fence off the opencast and surface infrastructure areas so as to prevent machinery and personnel accessing adjacent wetland areas outside the disturbance footprint.• Educate all mine staff and contractors on the importance and sensitivity of the wetland systems on site• Upgrade the existing crossing over the riparian zone forming the tributary of the Bierspruit with culverts.• Construct wetland crossings as follows:• Wetland crossings must make allowance for flow connectivity across the full wetland system to be maintained. • Install box culverts as opposed to pipe culverts.• No impoundments upstream should be allowed• Erosion protection must be installed on downstream discharge
Underground activities, opencast works, tailings storage facility, processing plants, tailings dams, stores
Operational • The laydown/contractor areas and footprints must be kept as small as possible;• Ensure berms and structures are constructed around these sites to ensure clean overland flow is
NWA GN 704 Ongoing, Prior to contract commencement, commissioning of infrastructure and operation of sewage facilities
directed into the natural drainage channels.• All wetlands and flood lines must be clearly marked and no activity is allowed inside these boundaries.• Natural drainage channels must only be crossed at specific areas and water management structures must be constructed before the road is commissioned.• All laydown areas and construction roads must be ripped and vegetated after the construction phase is complete.• Water emanating from contractor workshops and stores must be directed to a proper hydrocarbon management unit. All other surface water from the contractor area must be collected in a pond inside the boundaries of the contractor yard.• Parking areas for yellow machine must have spill kits and drip trays in-case of leaking vehicles.• No manufacturing and/or maintenance must be done in any area outside the workshops and manufacturing zone.• All topsoil stripped from the contractor area must be stored on topsoil dumps.
• Clean overland flow must be directed around the contractor area.
Opencast mining and surface infrastructure, stockpiles.
• Strong emphasis should be placed on the rehabilitation of these areas post opencast mining, and a watercourse resembling the downstream reaches of the Trollope system (i.e. downstream of the tar road) should be re-established across the mined out areas.• All stockpiles extending into the Trollope wetland/riparian habitat should however be adjusted to remain outside the delineated area.• Clearly demarcate all wetland areas as such to alert mining staff on site and where activities take place in close vicinity to wetland habitat, fence off the opencast and surface infrastructure areas so as to prevent machinery and personnel accessing adjacent wetland areas outside the disturbance footprint.• Educate all mine staff and contractors on the importance and sensitivity of the wetland systems on site• Upgrade the existing crossing over the riparian zone forming the tributary of the Bierspruit with culverts.• Construct wetland
NWA Once off, when required and when necessary.
crossings as follows:• Wetland crossings must make allowance for flow connectivity across the full wetland system to be maintained. • Install box culverts as opposed to pipe culverts.• No impoundments upstream should be allowed• Erosion protection must be installed on downstream discharge
Storm water control Operational• Comply with the requirements of GN 704 in terms of storm water management and comply with the proposed mitigation measures as outlined in the surface water section and as outlined in the section on flora and fauna management.
Opencast pit operations
Operational Should artefacts be discovered during the opencast pit operations, an archaeologist must be contacted and in turn the SAHRA.• Effective training programmes to be implemented
Section 3 of the National Heritage Resources Act (Act 25 of 1999)
Prior to construction and ongoing
Hauling and transport.
Operational • Avoid breaking of traffic laws and non-compliance with road signs • Provision of the appropriate traffic signs (warning and directional) to aid with the control of the traffic flow, at the access
National Road Agency
Ongoing
roads, during the construction phase.
Surface infrastructure
Operational • Prevent light pollution by avoiding light spillage outside of the project activity areas, the application of directional lighting, security lighting that is only activated upon illegal entry in restricted areas• Rehabilitate the tailing storage facilities soon as possible with indigenous vegetation that will blend in with the character of the existing vegetation• Avoid cutting down of trees
None Ongoing and when required
Community, Accommodation, offices, workshop, cumulative
Operational +8 • Maximise and monitor local recruitment coordinated through the Department of Labour• Promote the employment of women and youth • Avoid hiring illegal immigrants and child labour.• Where possible use labour-intensive methods of construction• Train and increase the skill level of the workforce• Develop and maintain a register of local SMMEs and the types of goods and services provided by them.• Where appropriate SMMEs do not exist, investigate the possibility of launching a training/ skills
South African Mining Charter
Ongoing, construction phase, prior to commencement of social projects, prior to planning of retrenchments.
development initiative to develop local entrepreneurial skills• Where possible, assist communities in responsible investing and savings through a reputable financial institution to take advantage of increasing disposable income• Establish linkages with other institutions involved in skills development and SMME development, such as the community development programme of the local municipality• Take steps to ensure that planned initiatives dovetail with those of other development institutions active in the area, including the district and local government• As far as possible, undertake the selection, design and implementation of development initiatives in collaboration with their intended beneficiaries.• Determine what the communities’ expectations are regarding development• Ensure that diversions and major disturbances to national and provincial roads occurs during low peak times;• When necessary, ensure that local residents
are kept informed on an on-going basis of construction progress and when access will be blocked in certain areas• Investigate the establishment of a community forum to serve as a dedicated communication channel with the local population• Implement measures to ensure that these speed restrictions are enforced. Such measures may include monitoring vehicle speeds, erecting speed limit signs and installing speed humps;• Maintain roads to prevent deterioration of roads surfaces due to heavy vehicle traffic.• Identify measures to manage/promote road safety and traffic control, taking into account the cumulative effects of traffic generated by multiple development projects• Prevent unauthorized access to the mine site through appropriate fencing and security;• Restrict the making of fires by construction workers to areas where tight control can be exerted, or that the making of fires be prohibited.• Increase awareness of the mine’s complaints and grievance procedures and hold feedback sessions with
community forums to assess the impact of this programme• implement HIV/AIDS and alcohol abuse campaigns in the communities;• Include HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted infections awareness and prevention programmes as a condition of contract for suppliers and sub-contractors.• Introduce a voluntary counselling and testing programme• Undertake a voluntary HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted disease prevalence survey on a regular basis.• Control access at the construction sites to prevent sex workers and petty traders from visiting and/or loitering• Establish formal liaison structures with the local police to monitor local social dynamics during both construction and eventually operation;• Establish and maintain liaison with existing crime control organisations, such as bona fide Community Policing Forums and Farm Watch organisations;• Ensure that contractors prioritise employment of local community members
• Maintain strategy of liaising with the local municipality to ensure that expected population influx is taken into account in infrastructure development planning of the Thabazimbi Local Municipality• Where possible, assist local government with the identification of measures to mitigate and/or control the expansion of informal settlements• Frequent monitoring of the broader area to detect the establishment of new informal settlements or rapid expansion of existing settlements
Transport and hauling, Access roads, demolition
Decommissioning • Use existing roads and minimise new roads.• The width of service roads must be minimised as much as possible• Maintain grass cover for as long as possible• Erosion control measures must be constructed• Stripped soils should be stockpiled as a berm upslope (majority) and surrounding the disturbed area.• Stripping machinery should be used when soil moisture content is below
NEMA CARA GN R983
Post operational phase and ongoing
approximately 8% to limit soil compaction.• Stripping of topsoil should not be done earlier than required.• An intercept drain should be constructed upslope of construction and operational areas, in order to re-direct clean water away.• An intercept drain should possibly be constructed downslope of polluted areas, in order to drain potentially polluted water into a pollution control dam.• Conduct proper chemical waste management to avoid spillage of chemicals• Use tracked vehicles rather than wheeled vehicles due to their lower point loading and slip, thereby minimise compaction• Soil stockpiles must be sampled, ameliorated (fertilized) and re-vegetated as soon after construction as possible
Removal of mining infrastructure, Access roads.
• Plant vegetation species for rehabilitation that will effectively bind the loose material and which can absorb run-off from the mining areas. Rehabilitate all the land where infrastructure has been demolished.• Monitor the establishment of the
NEMBA GNR 599 of 2014
Prior to construction phase and ongoing
vegetation cover on the rehabilitated sites to the point where it is self-sustaining.• Protect rehabilitation areas until the area is self-sustaining.• Diversion trenches and storm water measures must be maintained
Hauling and transport, roads
• Apply wet suppression or chemical stabilisation on unpaved roads. • Reduce unnecessary traffic and strict speed control in areas where speed limits are disobeyed• Stabilise (chemical, rock cladding or vegetative) disturbed soil and early re-vegetation
NEMAQA and with the South African National Dust Regulations
Ongoing
Cessation of mining • Strong emphasis should be placed on the rehabilitation of these areas post opencast mining, and a watercourse resembling the downstream reaches of the Trollope system (i.e. downstream of the tar road) should be re-established across the mined out areas.• All stockpiles extending into the Trollope wetland/riparian habitat should however be adjusted to remain outside the delineated area.• Clearly demarcate all wetland areas as such to alert
Waste Act Ongoing
mining staff on site and where activities take place in close vicinity to wetland habitat, fence off the opencast and surface infrastructure areas so as to prevent machinery and personnel accessing adjacent wetland areas outside the disturbance footprint.• Educate all mine staff and contractors on the importance and sensitivity of the wetland systems on site• Upgrade the existing crossing over the riparian zone forming the tributary of the Bierspruit with culverts.• Construct wetland crossings as follows:• Wetland crossings must make allowance for flow connectivity across the full wetland system to be maintained. • Install box culverts as opposed to pipe culverts.• No impoundments upstream should be allowed• Erosion protection must be installed on downstream discharge
Cessation of mining, Communities, accommodation, offices.
• Prevent light pollution by avoiding light spillage outside of the project activity areas, the application of directional lighting, security lighting that is only activated upon illegal entry in restricted areas
None When required and once tailings storage facility has been decommissioned.
• Rehabilitate the tailing storage facilities soon as possible with indigenous vegetation that will blend in with the character of the existing vegetation• Avoid cutting down of tress
Communities • Implement HIV/AIDS and alcohol abuse campaigns in the communities;• Include HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted infections awareness and prevention programmes as a condition of contract for suppliers and sub-contractors• Provide an adequate supply of free condoms to workers• Introduce a voluntary counselling and testing programme• Undertake a voluntary HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted disease prevalence survey on a regular basis.• Establish formal liaison structures with the local police to monitor local social dynamics during both construction and eventually operation;• Establish and maintain liaison should be maintained with existing crime control organisations, such as bona fide Community Policing Forums and Farm
South African Mining Charter
Prior to planning retrenchments and ongoing.
Watch organisations;• Identify mechanisms to save jobs and avoid job losses and a decline in employment;• Identify mechanisms to provide alternative solutions and procedures for creating job security where job losses cannot be avoided
Bare, compacted and sterile areas
Closure • Rip soils immediately after operations cease and revegetate
• Sample, test and ameliorate soil on rehabilitated areas to improve conditions for re-vegetation.
• Prevent the concentration of surface runoff through channels, trenches or preferential flow paths created by vehicle tracks. Install sediment barriers, e.g. straw bales or bidim fences, along the downslope edge of disturbed areas until sufficient vegetation cover has been established.
• Where rehabilitation activities take place on steep slopes or areas of high surface runoff volumes and velocities, consider the installation of a geomembrane to hold the soil
• Rehabilitate as close to possible to the situation prior to mining
NEMA CARA GN R983
During rehabilitation and annually for 5 years.
Rehabilitation sites, demolished infrastructure, trenches.
Closure • Plant vegetation species for rehabilitation that will effectively bind the loose material and which can absorb run-off from the mining areas. Rehabilitate all the land where infrastructure has been demolished.• Monitor the establishment of the vegetation cover on the rehabilitated sites to the point where it is self-sustaining.• Protect rehabilitation areas until the area is self-sustaining.• Diversion trenches and storm water measures must be maintained
NEMA Regulation 543 Section 32
Ongoing, verify 6 monthly and at closure.
Decommissioning activities, Transport and hauling, Roads
Closure • Apply wet suppression or chemical stabilisation on unpaved roads. • Reduce unnecessary traffic and strict speed control in areas where speed limits are disobeyed• Stabilise (chemical, rock cladding or vegetative) disturbed soil and early re-vegetation
NEMAQA and with the South African National Dust Regulations
At closure
Defunct tailing dam, underground blasting activity, backfilling
Closure • Investigate an abstraction scheme should the monitoring data indicate a requirement for intervention in this regard. • Monitoring
NWA When required
Surface infrastructure
Closure • Prevent light pollution by avoiding light spillage
None Once tailings storage facility has been decommissioned.
Demolition outside of the project activity areas, the application of directional lighting, security lighting that is only activated upon illegal entry in restricted areas• Rehabilitate the tailing storage facilities soon as possible with indigenous vegetation that will blend in with the character of the existing vegetation
e) Impact Management Outcomes
(A description of impact management outcomes, identifying the standard of impact management required for the aspects contemplated in paragraph ()
ACTIVITY Whether listed or not
listed.
(E.g. Excavations, blasting, stockpiles, discard dumps or dams, Loading, hauling and transport, Water supply dams and boreholes, accommodation, offices, ablution, stores, workshops, processing plant, storm water control, berms, roads, pipelines, power lines, conveyors, etc…etc…etc.).
POTENTIAL IMPACT
(E.g. dust, noise, drainage surface disturbance, fly rock, surface water contamination, groundwater contamination, and air pollution etc….etc…)
ASPECTSAFFECTED
PHASEIn which impact is
anticipated
(e.g. Construction, commissioning,
operationalDecommissioning,
closure, post-closure)
MITIGATIONTYPE
(modify, remedy, control, or stop) through (e.g. noise control measures, storm-water control, dust control, rehabilitation, design measures, blasting controls, avoidance, relocation, alternative activity etc. etc)
E.g. Modify through alternative
method. Control through noise
control Control through
management and monitoring
Remedy through rehabilitation..
STANDARD TO BE ACHIEVED
(Impact avoided, noise levels, dust levels,
rehabilitation standards, end use objectives) etc.
Excavation, stockpiling,
Disturbances/changes to the topography of the area
Topography Construction Remedy through rehabilitation
Rehabilitation standards
channelling and berms (Temporal)Disposal of waste on land and Inadequate storage of hazardous substances
Potential soil and water contamination;legal non-compliance; lost opportunities for waste recycling
Waste and Hazardous Substances
Construction Control through management
End use objectives
Construction of support facilities and vegetation clearing.
Soil compaction; soil loss due to wind and water erosion; change of land-use from natural to industrial; soil pollution due to hydrocarbon and cement spillages; sterilisation of the soil resource
Soil and Land Capability
Construction Control through erosion control measures; remedy through rehabilitation; avoidance through chemical waste management; monitor through rehabilitation.
Rehabilitation standards
Opencast mining, vegetation clearing and construction of surface infrastructure
Habitat loss and harm to flora and fauna;Fragmentation of the habitat resulting in harm to flora and fauna;Fauna mortalities;habitat degradation
Flora and Fauna Construction Control through management; Avoidance; modify through alternative methods.
End-use objectives
Blasting Human discomfort and structural damage; New total resulting ambient noise levels elevated above pre-development levels and the actual increase in ambient noise levels
Vibrations and Noise
Construction Control through noise control measures; manage through monitoring; Avoidance, control through blasting controls.
Noise levels
Topsoil and subsoil stripping, Transport and hauling.
Cumulative particulate emissions
Air Quality Construction Control through management; control through traffic and speed control measures;
Dust levels
Storm water control, stripping, overburden and berms.
Sheet erosion; dust; potential pollution by hazardous substances; Poor sanitation and poor storm water management; Deterioration in water
Surface water Construction Control through management; control through water management structures; monitor through hydrocarbon
Rehabilitation standards
Quality and decrease in catchment Yield;
management unity; remedy through rehabilitation.
Processing plants, , tailings storage facility.
Groundwater Availability and groundwater quality
Groundwater Construction Control through management (water balance); stop through shaft design measures, monitor through pollution control dams.
End-use objectives
Surface infrastructure Degradation of wetland Habitat; increased sedimentation within the wetlandsincreased turbidity; obstruction of flows, increased risk of erosion and water quality deterioration
Wetland Construction Remedy through rehabilitation; relocation; avoidance; Control through management; design measures.
Rehabilitation standards
Storm water control, topsoil and subsoil stripping.
Destruction / disturbance of the Bierpruit and other rivers in the area
Aquatic Construction Control through management; control through water management structures; monitor through hydrocarbon management unity; remedy through rehabilitation.
Rehabilitation standards
Construction of facilities, structures and associated infrastructure.
Destruction of archaeological and heritage sites
Archaeology and Heritage sites
Construction Control through management
Impact avoided
Construction of access roads, Hauling and transport
Increased traffic flow; dust generation and noise generation.
Traffic Construction Dust control, traffic and noise control measures, Avoidance
Traffic levels
Construction of surface infrastructure and tailings storage facility
Aesthetic value and sense of place
Visual Construction Avoidance; Remedy through rehabilitation; Control through management.
Rehabilitation standards
Communities Job creation during construction;
Socio-economic Construction Avoidance (hiring of illegal immigrants and
Maintenance and monitoring
Multiplier effect on local economy;Continued corporate investment in host communities;Physical intrusionIncreased social pathologies;Increased pressure on services and resources.
child labour); Control through management; Increase Awareness through training, campaigning and skills development; design measures; traffic control measure; control through access monitoring.
Opencast mining activities; Overburden
No further impact Geology Operational None necessary Impact avoided
Excavation,channelling and berms, stockpiling of waste rock residue, tailingsstorage facilities, hauling and transport
Resultant Waste Rock Residue
Topography Operational Rehabilitation, Control through management; Avoidance; modify through alternative methods.
Rehabilitation standards
Disposal of waste on land and Inadequate storage of hazardous substances
No further impact provided rehabilitation was taken
Waste Management
Operational Avoidance, Control through management
Impact avoided
Construction of facilities, Stockpiles and berms
Soil compaction Erosion on newly denuded areas, replaced topsoil and rehabilitated roads Hydrocarbon pollution
Soil and Land Capability
Operational Control through erosion control measures; remedy through rehabilitation; avoidance through chemical waste management; monitor through rehabilitation.
Rehabilitation standards
Opencast operations, tailings storage facilities and surface infrastructure
Habitat loss and harm to flora and fauna,Fragmentation of the habitat,Fauna mortalities, Presence of alien and invasive species resulting in habitat degradation.
Flora and Fauna Operational Control through management; Avoidance; modify through alternative methods, traffic control measures, alien and invasive species control
End-use objectives
Opencast mining, blasting,
Ambient noise levels Noise and Vibrations
Operational Control through noise control measures;
Noise levels
manage through monitoring; Avoidance, control through blasting controls.
Hauling and transport, opencast mining, vegetation clearing,
Cumulative particulate emissions
Air Quality Operational Traffic and speed controls, Control through management.
Dust levels
Mining operations, processing plants, berms, surface infrastructure
No cumulative impact Groundwater Operational Control through management; control through water management structures; monitor through hydrocarbon management unity; remedy through rehabilitation
Impact avoided
Underground activities, opencast works, tailings storage facility, processing plants, tailings dams, stores
No impact Surface water Operational Control through management, Modify through alternative methods, rehabilitation.
Impact avoided
Opencast mining and surface infrastructure, stockpiles.
Increased sedimentation within the wetlands, alien species and water quality deterioration. Wetland habitat degradation
Wetland Operational Rehabilitation, Avoidance; Control through management; design measures.
Rehabilitation standards
Storm water control Runoff from nearby rivers resulting in sedimentation
Aquatic Operational Control through management; control through water management structures; monitor through hydrocarbon management control measure; control through access monitoring.
End-use objectives
Opencast pit operations
No impact Archaeology and Heritage
Operational Control through management
Impact avoided
Hauling and transport. Noise due to increased traffic volumes
Traffic Operational Dust control, traffic and noise control measures;
Noise levels
Avoidance.Surface infrastructure Aesthetic quality and
sense of placeVisual Operational Avoidance, modify,
rehabilitationImpact avoided
Community, Accommodation, offices, workshop, cumulative
Dependency on mine for sustaining local economyIncreased social pathologies
Socio-economic Operational Avoidance (hiring of illegal immigrants and child labour); Control through management; Increase Awareness through training, campaigning and skills development; design measures; traffic control measure; control through access monitoring.
No further impact Geology Decommissioning Impact AvoidedTailings storage facilities, Hauling and transport
No further impact Topography Decommissioning Control through management; Avoidance; modify through alternative methods.
Impact Avoided
No further impact Waste Management
Decommissioning Impact Avoided
Transport and hauling, Access roads, demolition
Soil erosion, water erosion,Loss of land capability Loss of land use
Soil and land capability
Decommissioning Control through management, Erosion control measures, remedy, design measures, monitoring through rehabilitation.
Rehabilitation standards
Removal of mining infrastructure, Access roads.
Cumulative Flora and Fauna Decommissioning Control through management, stop through destroyal of invasives, modify through alternative method, alien control measures, traffic controls
End-use objectives
Machinery and equipment, Cumulative
No impact Vibrations Decommissioning Noise control, monitoring Impact avoided
Hauling and transport, roads
Cumulative particulate emissions and NOX emissions
Air Quality Decommissioning Traffic control measures, monitoring through rehabilitation, dust control.
Dust levels
No further impact Surface Water Decommissioning Impact AvoidedPotential surface decant, Long term quality of seepage from the tailings storage facilities
Ground water
Cessation of mining Wetland Habitat degradation
Wetland Decommissioning Control through management, stop through destroyal of invasives, modify through alternative method, alien control measures, Remedy.
Rehabilitation standards
Mining and processing plants
No further impact Aquatic Decommissioning Impact avoided
No further impact Archaeology and Heritage
Decommissioning Impact avoided
Demolition of surface infrastructure
No further impact Noise Decommissioning Impact avoided
Roads, Cessation of mining, demolition of infrastructure
No negative impact there will be improvement in traffic post operational phase
Traffic Decommissioning None necessary Impact avoided
Cessation of mining, Communities, accommodation, offices.
Aesthetic Value and sense of place
Visual Decommissioning Control through management; Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation standards
Community Dependency on mine for sustaining local economyIncreased social pathologies
Socio-economic Decommissioning Avoidance (hiring of illegal immigrants and child labour); Control through management; Increase Awareness through training, campaigning and skills development; design measures; traffic control measure; control through access monitoring
End use objectives
No further impact Geology Closure Impact avoidedNo further impact Topography Closure Impact avoided
No further impact Waste and Hazardous Substances
Closure Impact avoided
Bare, compacted and sterile areas
Soil erosion, water erosion,Loss of land capability Loss of land use
Soil and Land Capability
Closure Rehabilitation; Control through monitoring, design measures, remedy.
Rehabilitation standards
Rehabilitation sites, demolished infrastructure, trenches.
Cumulative Flora and Fauna Closure Rehabilitation; Monitor through rehabilitation, control through management.
Rehabilitation standards
No impact Vibrations Impact avoidedDecommissioning activities, Transport and hauling, Roads
Cumulative particulate emissions and NOX emissions
Air Quality Closure Traffic control measures, monitoring through rehabilitation, dust control.
Dust levels
No further impact Surface water Closure Impact avoidedDefunct tailing dam, underground blasting activity, backfilling
Potential surface decant, Long term quality of seepage from the tailings storage facilities
Ground water Closure Monitoring, modify through alternative method.
End use objectives
Rehabilitation Wetland Habitat Degradation
Wetland Closure Rehabilitation, Avoidance; Control through management; design measures.
Rehabilitation standards
No further Impact Aquatic Closure Impact avoidedNo further Impact Archaeology and
Heritage sitesImpact avoided
No further Impact Noise Closure Impact avoidedNo negative impact there will be improvement in traffic post operational phase
Traffic Closure Impact avoided
Surface infrastructure Demolition
Aesthetic Value and sense of place
Visual Closure Control; Rehabilitation Rehabilitation Standards
Communities Dependency on mine for sustaining local economyIncreased social
Socio-economic Closure Avoidance (hiring of illegal immigrants and child labour); Control
End use objectives
pathologies through management; Increase Awareness through training, campaigning and skills development; design measures; traffic control measure; control through access monitoring.
f) Impact Management Actions
(A description of impact management actions, identifying the manner in which the impact management objectives and outcomes contemplated in paragraphs (c) and (d) will be achieved).
ACTIVITY Whether listed or not
listed.
(E.g. Excavations, blasting, stockpiles, discard dumps or dams, Loading, hauling and transport, Water supply dams and boreholes, accommodation, offices, ablution, stores, workshops, processing plant, storm water control, berms, roads, pipelines, power lines, conveyors, etc.…etc.…etc.).
POTENTIAL IMPACT
(E.g. dust, noise, drainage surface disturbance, fly rock, surface water contamination, groundwater contamination, and air pollution etc.….etc…)
MITIGATIONTYPE
(modify, remedy, control, or stop) through (E.g. noise control measures, storm-water control, dust control, rehabilitation, design measures, blasting controls, avoidance, relocation, alternative activity etc. etc)
E.g. Modify through alternative
method. Control through noise control Control through management
and monitoringRemedy through rehabilitation..
TIME PERIOD FOR IMPLEMENTATION
Describe the time period when the
measures in the environmental
management programme must be
implemented Measures must be
implemented when required.
With regard to Rehabilitation
specifically this must take place at the
earliest opportunity. .With regard to
Rehabilitation, therefore state either:-...
Upon cessation of the individual
activity
Or.
Upon the cessation of mining, bulk sampling or alluvial diamond prospecting as the case may be.
COMPLIANCE WITH STANDARDS
(A description of how each of the recommendations in 2.11.6 read with
2.12 and 2.15.2 herein will comply with any prescribed environmental
management standards or practices that have been identified by
Competent Authorities)
CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Excavation, stockpiling, channelling and berms
Disturbances/changes to the topography of the area(Temporal)
Remedy through rehabilitation Ongoing, Post construction, 6 monthly
NEMACARAGN R983
Disposal of waste on land and Inadequate storage of hazardous substances
Potential soil and water contamination;legal non-compliance; lost opportunities for waste recycling
Control through management Ongoing NEMWA
Construction of support facilities and vegetation clearing.
Soil compaction; soil loss due to wind and water erosion; change of
Control through erosion control measures; remedy through rehabilitation; avoidance
Ongoing, Post construction, 6 monthly
NEMA CARA GN R 983
land-use from natural to industrial; soil pollution due to hydrocarbon and cement spillages; sterilisation of the soil resource
through chemical waste management; monitor through rehabilitation.
Opencast mining, vegetation clearing and construction of surface infrastructure
Habitat loss and harm to flora and fauna;Fragmentation of the habitat resulting in harm to flora and fauna;Fauna mortalities;habitat degradation
Control through management; Avoidance; modify through alternative methods.
Prior to ground clearing and when required
NEMA Regulation 543 Section 32
NEMBA Section 56 (1), 57 (1), 57 (2) and 57 (4)
Limpopo Environmental Management Act Schedules 2, 3, 11 and 12
NEMA Regulation 543 Section 32
National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act (NEMBA) Section 56 (1), 57 (1), 57 (2) and 57 (4)
Limpopo Environmental Management Act Schedules 2, 3, 11 and 12
NEMBA Section 56 (1), 57 (1), 57 (2) and 57 (4)NEMA Regulation 543 Section 32
Alien and Invasive Species Regulations (GNR 599 of 2014) as part of the NEMBA
Blasting Human discomfort and structural damage; New total resulting ambient noise levels elevated
Control through noise control measures; manage through monitoring; Avoidance, control
Prior to blasting, Duration of blast
National and provincial noise regulations. SANS 10103
above pre-development levels and the actual increase in ambient noise levels
through blasting controls.
Topsoil and subsoil stripping, Transport and hauling.
Cumulative particulate emissions
Control through management; control through traffic and speed control measures;
On-going Compliance with NEMAQA and with the South African National Dust Control Regulations
Storm water control, stripping, overburden and berms.
Sheet erosion; dust; potential pollution by hazardous substances; Poor sanitation and poor storm water management; Deterioration in water Quality and decrease in catchment Yield;
Control through management; control through water management structures; monitor through hydrocarbon management unity; remedy through rehabilitation.
Prior to construction and ongoing
NWA GN 704
Processing plants, tailings storage facility.
Groundwater Availability and groundwater quality
Control through management (water balance); stop through shaft design measures, monitor through pollution control dams.
On-going NWA
Surface infrastructure Degradation of wetland Habitat; increased sedimentation within the wetlands
increased turbidity; obstruction of flows, increased risk of erosion and water quality deterioration
Remedy through rehabilitation; relocation; avoidance; Control through management; design measures.
Prior to commencement of activity, when necessary and ongoing
Section 21 of the NWA
Storm water control, topsoil and subsoil
Destruction / disturbance of the
Control through management; control through water
Ongoing and when required. NWA
stripping. Bierpruit and other rivers in the area
management structures; monitor through hydrocarbon management unity; remedy through rehabilitation.
Construction of facilities, structures and associated infrastructure.
Destruction of archaeological and heritage sites
Control through management Prior to construction and ongoing
Section 3 of The National Heritage Resources Act (Act No 25 of 1999)
Construction of access roads, Hauling and transport
Increased traffic flow; dust generation and noise generation.
Dust control, traffic and noise control measures, Avoidance
Ongoing National Road Agency
Construction of surface infrastructure and tailings storage facility
Aesthetic value and sense of place
Avoidance; Remedy through rehabilitation; Control through management.
Once tailings storage facility has been decommissioned, ongoing and when required.
None
Communities Job creation during construction;Multiplier effect on local economy;Continued corporate investment in host communities;Physical intrusionIncreased social pathologies;Increased pressure on services and resources.
Avoidance (hiring of illegal immigrants and child labour); Control through management; Increase Awareness through training, campaigning and skills development; design measures; traffic control measure; control through access monitoring.
Prior to commencement of social projects, ongoing and verify every 6 months.
South African Mining Charter
OPERATIONAL PHASE
Excavation,
channelling and berms, stockpiling of waste rock residue, tailings
storage facilities, hauling and transport
Resultant Waste Rock Residue
Rehabilitation, Control through management; Avoidance; modify through alternative methods.
Prior construction, ongoing, post construction, six monthly.
NEMA
CARA
GN R983
Disposal of waste on land and Inadequate storage of hazardous substances
No further impact provided rehabilitation was taken
Avoidance, Control through management
Ongoing The Hazardous substances Act (Act 15 of 1973) and the NWA.
Relevant SANS Standard and NEMWA.
Construction of facilities, Stockpiles and berms
Soil compaction
Erosion on newly denuded areas, replaced topsoil and rehabilitated roads
Hydrocarbon pollution
Control through erosion control measures; remedy through rehabilitation; avoidance through chemical waste management; monitor through rehabilitation.
Prior construction, ongoing, post construction, six monthly
NEMA CARA
GN R983
Opencast operations, tailings storage facilities and surface infrastructure
Habitat loss and harm to flora and fauna,
Fragmentation of the habitat,
Fauna mortalities, Presence of alien and invasive species resulting in habitat degradation.
Control through management; Avoidance; modify through alternative methods, traffic control measures, alien and invasive species control
Prior to ground clearing, prior to construction, when required and ongoing.
NEMA Regulation 543 Section 32
NEMBA Section 56 (1), 57 (1), 57 (2) and 57 (4)
Limpopo Environmental Management Act Schedules 2, 3, 11 and 12
NEMA Regulation 543 Section 32
National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act (NEMBA) Section 56 (1), 57 (1), 57 (2) and 57 (4)
Limpopo Environmental Management Act Schedules 2, 3, 11 and 12
NEMBA Section 56 (1), 57 (1),
57 (2) and 57 (4)
NEMA Regulation 543 Section 32
NEMBA GNR 599 of 2014
Opencast mining, blasting, Ambient noise levels Control through noise control measures; manage through monitoring; Avoidance, control through blasting controls.
When required National and provincial noise regulations. SANS 10103
Hauling and transport, opencast mining, vegetation clearing,
Cumulative particulate emissions
Traffic and speed controls, Control through management.
Prior to commencement of conveyor belt and ongoing.
NEMAQA and the South African National Dust Regulations
Mining operations, processing plants, berms, surface infrastructure
No cumulative impact Control through management; control through water management structures; monitor through hydrocarbon management unity; remedy through rehabilitation
When required and ongoing NWA
Underground activities, opencast works, tailings storage facility, processing plants, tailings dams, stores
No impact Control through management, Modify through alternative methods, rehabilitation.
Ongoing, Prior to contract commencement, commissioning of infrastructure and operation of sewage facilities.
NWA
GN 704
Opencast mining and surface infrastructure, stockpiles.
Increased sedimentation within the wetlands,
Alien species and water quality deterioration. Wetland habitat degradation
Rehabilitation, Avoidance; Control through management; design measures.
Once off, when required and when necessary.
NWA
Storm water control Runoff from nearby rivers resulting in sedimentation
Control through management; control through water management structures;
monitor through hydrocarbon management control measure; control through access monitoring.
Opencast pit operations No impact Control through management Prior to construction and ongoing.
Section 3 of The National Heritage Resources Act (Act No 25 of 1999)
Hauling and transport. Noise due to increased traffic volumes
Dust control, traffic and noise control measures; Avoidance.
Ongoing National Road Agency
Surface infrastructure Aesthetic quality and sense of place
Avoidance, modify, rehabilitation
Ongoing and when required None
Community, Accommodation, offices, workshop, cumulative
Dependency on mine for sustaining local economy
Increased social pathologies
Avoidance (hiring of illegal immigrants and child labour); Control through management; Increase Awareness through training, campaigning and skills development; design measures; traffic control measure; control through access monitoring.
Ongoing, construction phase, prior to commencement of social projects, prior to planning retrenchments, verify 6 monthly.
South African Mining Charter
DECOMMISSIONING PHASE
Tailings storage facilities, Hauling and transport
No further impact Control through management; Avoidance; modify through alternative methods.
Post operational phase and ongoing
NEMA CARA
GN R983
Transport and hauling, Access roads, demolition
Soil erosion, water erosion,
Loss of land capability
Loss of land use
Control through management, Erosion control measures, remedy, design measures, monitoring through rehabilitation.
Post operational phase and ongoing
NEMA CARA
GN R983
Removal of mining infrastructure, Access
Cumulative Control through management, stop through destroyal of
Prior to construction and phase
NEMBA GNR 599 of 2014
roads. invasives, modify through alternative method, alien control measures, traffic controls
Machinery and equipment, Cumulative
No impact Noise control, monitoring When required
Hauling and transport, roads
Cumulative particulate emissions and NOX emissions
Traffic control measures, monitoring through rehabilitation, dust control.
Ongoing NEMAQA and with the South African National Dust Regulations
Cessation of mining Wetland Habitat degradation
Control through management, stop through destroyal of invasives, modify through alternative method, alien control measures, Remedy.
On-going
Demolition of surface infrastructure
No further impact None necessary When required National and provincial noise regulations. SANS 10103
Cessation of mining, Communities, accommodation, offices.
Aesthetic Value and sense of place
Rehabilitation When required and once tailings storage facility has been decommissioned.
None
Community Dependency on mine for sustaining local economy
Increased social pathologies
Avoidance (hiring of illegal immigrants and child labour); Control through management; Increase Awareness through training, campaigning and skills development; design measures; traffic control measure; control through access monitoring
Prior to planning retrenchments and ongoing.
None
CLOSURE PHASE
Bare, compacted and sterile areas
Soil erosion, water erosion,Loss of land capability
Rehabilitation; Control through monitoring, design measures,
During rehabilitation and annually for 5 years.
NEMA CARA
Loss of land use remedy. GN R983
Rehabilitation sites, demolished infrastructure, trenches.
Cumulative Rehabilitation; Monitor through rehabilitation, control through management.
Ongoing, at closure and verify 6 monthly.
NEMA Regulation 543 Section 32
Decommissioning activities, Transport and hauling, Roads
Cumulative particulate emissions and NOX emissions
Traffic control measures, monitoring through rehabilitation, dust control.
At closure NEMAQA and with the South African National Dust Regulations
Defunct tailing dam, underground blasting activity, backfilling
Potential surface decant, Long term quality of seepage from the tailings storage facilities
Monitoring, modify through alternative method.
When required NWA
Surface infrastructure Demolition
Aesthetic Value and sense of place
Control; Rehabilitation Once tailings storage facility has been decommissioned.
None
(i) Financial Provision
1. Determination of the amount of Financial Provision.
(a) Describe the closure objectives and the extent to which they have been aligned to the baseline environment described under Regulation 22 (2) (d) as described in 2.4 herein.
Closure for the Cronimet Thaba Chrome Mine opencast and underground mining operations
and associated residual deposits will be undertaken in terms of the following principles:
To leave site in a safe state for humans and animals.
To ensure that the water resources (surface and ground) are not affected by both mining
and rehabilitation activities.
To promote indigenous vegetation growth suitable for animals that graze over the
disturbed areas on the site.
Backfilling of all excavated areas with waste rocks, overburden and topsoil material to
adopt a shape similar to its initial state.
Revegetate the tailings storage facility to ensure blending with the surrounding
environment.
(b) Confirm specifically that the environmental objectives in relation to closure have been consulted with land owner and interested and affected parties.
The environmental objectives in relation to closure have been consulted with landowner and
interested parties during the public participation process.
(c) Provide a rehabilitation plan that describes and shows the scale and aerial extent of the main mining activities, including the anticipated mining area at the time of closure.
The site covers an area of approximately 2129 Ha in extent, of which 136.392122 Ha is required
for residual deposit (tailing waste and waste rock material). A comprehensive closure and
rehabilitation plan will be developed in consultation will all interested and affected parties (I and
APs) and submitted with the draft EIR.
It is proposed that progressive approach to the rehabilitation of disturbed areas is adopted on
this site to ensure that where practicable, areas where mining or overburden placement are
completed, are quickly shaped , top soiled and vegetated to provide a stable land form. The
progressive formation of the post-mining landform and the establishment of a vegetative cover
will reduce the amount of disturbed land at any one time and also reduce the visibility of mine-
related activities from surrounding properties and roads. Early re-profiling and vegetation of
external batter slopes of the emplacement areas is particularly important and will be targeted as
a priority
(d) Explain why it can be confirmed that the rehabilitation plan is compatible with the closure objectives.
As detailed in the closure plan, the rehabilitation plan relates to each objective identified for the
mine. Therefore, the rehabilitation plan is considered to be compatible with the closure object-
ives.
(e) Calculate and state the quantum of the financial provision required to manage and rehabilitate the environment in accordance with the applicable guideline.
The quantum of financial rehabilitation for negative environmental impact has been estimated at
a total cost of R47 299 964.96.
(f) Confirm that the financial provision will be provided as determined.
The quantum of financial rehabilitation of negative environmental will be provided as determined.
Mechanisms for monitoring compliance with and performance assessment against the environmental management programme and reporting thereon, including
a) Monitoring of Impact Management Actionsb) Monitoring and reporting frequencyc) Responsible personsd) Time period for implementing impact management actionse) Mechanism for monitoring compliance
SOURCE ACTIVITY IMPACTS REQUIRING MONITORING
PROGRAMMES
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR MONITORING
ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
(FOR THE EXECUTION OF THE MONITORING PROGRAMMES)
MONITORING AND REPORTING FREQUENCY and TIME PERIODS FOR
IMPLEMENTING IMPACT MANAGEMENT ACTIONS
Waste Management And Hazardous Substance Management
- Quantities of non-hazardous waste to landfill
- Quantities of hazardous waste to landfill
- Quantities of domestic waste recycled
- Quantities of hazardous waste recycled
- Quantities of mining waste generated
- Total volume of non-hazardous waste material accepted into licensed landfill sites.
- Total volume of hazardous waste material accepted into licensed landfill sites.
- Total volume of waste from the operations used by a third party for recycling, separated into paper, glass, plastic, steel.
- Total volume of hazardous waste from the operations used by a third party for recycling, including oil and batteries
- Total volume of mining waste generated including waste rock residue and tailings
- Determine quantities of non-hazardous waste disposed of
- Determine quantities of hazardous waste disposed of
- Determine quantities of general waste recycled
- Determine quantities of hazardous waste recycled
- Determine quantities of mining waste generated
Monthly, Annual Sustainability Report.
Resource use Quantities of resources and materials used
Total quantity of the following resources used:• Diesel
Determine quantities of resources and materials used
Monthly, Annual Sustainability Report.
SOURCE ACTIVITY IMPACTS REQUIRING MONITORING
PROGRAMMES
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR MONITORING
ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
(FOR THE EXECUTION OF THE MONITORING PROGRAMMES)
MONITORING AND REPORTING FREQUENCY and TIME PERIODS FOR
IMPLEMENTING IMPACT MANAGEMENT ACTIONS
• Petrol• Gas• Electricity (Eskom)• Solar energy• Magalies Water• Ground water• Water re-cycled
Land Management Total area Land Use Management
Total area of the following aspects:• Area rehabilitated• Area disturbed• Area impacted by opencast mining• Area impacted by surface infrastructure• Area impacted by waste rock residue deposits and tailings storage facility
Determine extent of mining footprint and impacts
Annually, Annual Sustainability Report.
Flora and Fauna Management
Biodiversity indicator monitoring
Biodiversity indicators to include the following:• Extent of the footprint• Extent and condition of wetlands;• Habitat transformation;• Distribution and abundance of selected alien plant species;• Presence and viability of endangered endemic species• Soil erosion• Rehabilitation – flora succession over time
Determine the state of biodiversity and associated parameters
Annually, Internal Monitoring Report.
SOURCE ACTIVITY IMPACTS REQUIRING MONITORING
PROGRAMMES
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR MONITORING
ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
(FOR THE EXECUTION OF THE MONITORING PROGRAMMES)
MONITORING AND REPORTING FREQUENCY and TIME PERIODS FOR
IMPLEMENTING IMPACT MANAGEMENT ACTIONS
Noise management - Noise emissions that will cause impacts on pre-development ambient noise levels
- Sample environmental noise levels at the Thaba Cronimet Chrome Mine boundary
- Determine noise level with equipment operating at a distance of 10 m
- Measure at complainants location when equipment and processes are in operation
- Determine ambient noise levels at Thaba Cronimet Chrome Mine boundary which can serve as references
- Create a reference base for equipment emission levels which will assist in keeping maintenance levels optimised
- Responding effectively to complaints
First monitoring before start of construction. Thereafter 6 monthly for the duration of construction.
Report on the noise ambient levels at the mine.
Vibration Management
Vibrations from blasting
Establish permanent seismograph stations at locations 7, 9, 11, 18 and 19 according to the BS 7385-2:1993 standard. Should locations 7, 9, 11 be demolished this would not be necessary at those stations. Monitoring stations to be erected should blasting take place within 250 m of these structures
Ascertain and evaluate current vibrations and guide blasters for further blasting
Daily measurements and during blasting, Internal
Air Quality Management
Dust fall out (PM 10) Establishment of six additional dust buckets as follows (refer to Figure 28-1)• DB1 directly downwind of the existing processing plant at Middelaagte 382 KQ – between the RoM stockpile and plant (the dust fallout at this site
To assess compliance with dust fall limits within the main impact zone of the operation and to facilitate the measurement of progress against environmental targets within the main impact zone of the operation.
On-going, continuous monitoring to be implemented facilitating data collection over one month averaging period. Annually to DMR
SOURCE ACTIVITY IMPACTS REQUIRING MONITORING
PROGRAMMES
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR MONITORING
ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
(FOR THE EXECUTION OF THE MONITORING PROGRAMMES)
MONITORING AND REPORTING FREQUENCY and TIME PERIODS FOR
IMPLEMENTING IMPACT MANAGEMENT ACTIONS
should not exceed 1200 mg/m²/day);• DB2 downwind of the access road (the dust fallout at this site should not exceed 1 200 mg/m²/day) • DB3 on the mining right boundary (the dust fallout at this site should not exceed 1 200 mg/m²/day)• DB4 located between Thaba Cronimet Chrome Mine and R4, within 50 m oR4 (the dust fallout at this site should not exceed 600 mg/m²/day)• DB5 located at starting point of conveyor used for Moddergat operation (the dust fallout at this site should not exceed 1 200 mg/m²/day);• DB5 located downwind of Moddergat processing plant operations (the dust fallout at this site should not exceed 1 200 mg/m²/day)Placement of a PM10 monitor at the receptor labelled R4, which falls within the mining right boundary. This is the receptor nearest the mining operations and monitoring is recommended to confirm concentrations falling below the relative standards.
Analyse the temporal trends to determine the potential for nuisance impacts within the main impact zone of the operation so as to inform the public of the extent of localised dust nuisance impacts occurring in the vicinity of the mine operations.
Surface Water Management
- Surface water quality (natural
- The inclusion of an additional thirteen
- Identify and determine the extent
- Monthly, Annually to DWS.- Bi-annually (once in the
SOURCE ACTIVITY IMPACTS REQUIRING MONITORING
PROGRAMMES
FUNCTIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR MONITORING
ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
(FOR THE EXECUTION OF THE MONITORING PROGRAMMES)
MONITORING AND REPORTING FREQUENCY and TIME PERIODS FOR
IMPLEMENTING IMPACT MANAGEMENT ACTIONS
water bodies and process water)
- Bio-monitoring (Invertebrate Habitat Assessment System
monitoring points as depicted by Figure 28-3. It is not possible to provide the exact positioning of all these points as these will be determined as the infrastructure is constructed. It is also to be noted that the process water points will only be monitored once construction has taken place.
- Monitoring done on the Bierspruit at five locations and one location within the mining process water. It includes an assessment of in situ biota specific water quality, habitat integrity and suitability for aquatic
of possible impacts on surface water qualities
- To determine the impact of activities on the invertebrate habitat according to the South African Scoring System
winter and once in the summer months), annually to DWS.
Ground Water Management
Ground water quality and levels
Newly drilled boreholes and proposed boreholes will be used for groundwater monitoring and have been included in the monitoring plan for the mine
- Identify and determine the extent of possible groundwater impacts
- Determine ground water levels and fluctuations
Quarterly, Annually to the DWS.
Closure Liability Closure Liability Closure liability update assessment
Determine the closure liability that is required for premature mine closure
Annually, Report to be submitted to the DMR
l) Indicate the frequency of the submission of the performance assessment report.
The performance assessment report for the implementation of the commitments made in the
approved EMP reports for CCMSA will be submitted yearly as required in terms of Regulation
527 of MPRDR (Regulation 55) and other related regulations.
m) Environmental Awareness Plan
1. Manner in which the applicant intends to inform his or her employees of any environmental risk which may result from their work.
A site induction and environmental training programme will be generated for the project. All
staff commissioned during pre-construction and construction, including subcontractors will be
advised of the EMP and EMS requirements through the induction programme.
General awareness – this training applies to all employees and contractors. General
awareness training is provided during induction training which is mandatory for all
employees and contractors on appointment at Thaba Cronimet Chrome Mine.
Subsequently all employees and contractors will undergo induction training on an annual
basis. The general awareness training is to provide information on the following:
- Cronimet’s environmental responsibility;
- Employee and contractor responsibilities;
- Environmental legislation and authorisations;
- Environmental commitments;
- Cronimet’s SHE policy;
- Introduction on ISO 14 001;
- Key system and operational requirements;
- Key requirements in terms of the management water, waste, land and soil,
archaeological, traffic, noise and flora and fauna as aligned with the
Environmental Management Programme Report, water use licenses and general
legislation.
2. Manner in which risks will be dealt with in order to avoid pollution or the degradation of the environment.
The conditions and proposals of contained in this Environmental Impact Report and
Environmental Management Programme will beimplemented in order to protect the
environment and comply with environmental legislation.
The EMP provides assurance that the project proponent has made suitable provision for
mitigation. Methods and procedures for mitigating and monitoring impacts will be
described in it. This document will be used throughout the project lifecycle and regularly
updated to remain aligned with the project as it progresses from construction to
operation, decommissioning and closure phase.
Furthermore, environmental management system will be included which provides a
systematic framework and approach to minimize risks and control environmental aspects
as well as impacts.
n) Specific information required by the Competent Authority(Among others, confirm that the financial provision will be reviewed annually).
o) UNDERTAKING
The EAP herewith confirms
a. the correctness of the information provided in the reports
b. the inclusion of comments and inputs from stakeholders and I&APs ;
c. the inclusion of inputs and recommendations from the specialist reports where relevant; and
d. the acceptability of the project in relation to the finding of the assessment and level of mitigation proposed;
-END-
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www.angloplatinum.com/pdf%5C2009%5Cwater.pdf
www.cronimet-mining.com
(http://www.matthey.com/)
www.minerals.usgs.gov/minerals/pubs/commodity/chromium/mcs-2013-chrom.pdf
www.nationsencyclopedia.com/economies/Africa/South-Africa
APPENDICES