Media coverage

8 AUGUST 2011

Coal of Africa ‘no threat to Mapungubwe’

Source: www.farmersweekly.co.za

Despite a barrage of bad press and vehement opposition from environmentalists, Coal of Africa CEO John Wallington insists that its Vele operations pose no threat to the Mapungubwe heritage site. Annelie Coleman asked him why his company started the project without the necessary approvals.

Coal of Africa’s Vele operation is perceived as a threat to Mapungubwe. What assurances do you offer in response?

Coal of Africa will not mine within the Mapungubwe National Park, its buffer zone or any core areas. We recognise the area’s uniqueness and aim to manage the colliery in an environmentally sustainable manner.

What will the terrain at your operations look like in 50 or a 100 years’ time?

We’re committed to the responsible development and management of our operations, with due regard for our environment and natural resources. We’ve initiated various programmes to minimise the impact of coal mining through modern, environmentally-friendly mining techniques.

Rehabilitation will be conducted concurrently with mining, and comprehensive mine closure strategies will ensure that management measures are put in place during mining will remain effective once mining stops.

One gets the impression that the mining industry isn’t keen to engage with agriculture on pollution and environmental protection. Have you communicated with affected landowners and organised agriculture and do you plan to do so in future?

Coal of Africa has continuously engaged in an open and transparent public participation process, communicating what the potential impact would be on the community and the environment. The process is focused on a two-way, participatory approach. Information is made available, then parties engage to explore and discuss mitigation measures.

The company believes that, by encouraging this two-way engagement, we’ll be able to work with affected parties to ensure these measures are mutually satisfactory. The process is two-fold. Potential impacts are discussed with the interested and affected parties, then mitigation measures are agreed upon and implemented.

Anti-mining lobbyists seem to believe that Coal of Africa damages natural resources and the environment and will continue mining at all cost. What is your response to this?

Coal of Africa is committed to a rigorous process of engagement in line with environmental legislation, embodying both the letter and the spirit of these regulations. We believe that the development of this region’s mineral wealth is in the interests of a broad range of stakeholders and are committed to doing so responsibly, and leaving a sustainable legacy well after mining ceases.

To emphasise our commitment to engaging with key stakeholders, we’ve invited the NGO coalition that comprises the Endangered Wildlife Trust, BirdLife South Africa, the Peace Parks Foundation and the Mapungubwe Action Group to engage with our leadership and discuss issues regarding the start-up and operation of the Vele Mine.

Contact

Coal of Africa
Tel: 011 575 4363
E-mail: adminza@coalofafrica.co.za