Environmentalists have raised the alarm over the cumulative effect of different companies prospecting on the same property.The last, relatively pristine section of Western Cape coastline between the Olifants River and the Northern Cape border is threatened by two new mining-related applications.
In its acceptance letter to Nekwana, DMRE says the company is required to"consult" with the department’s regional office or the diamond prospector about operations on the same property. Yet there is no requirement for a combined impact assessment of the two operations. Yet because so many approvals have already been given for prospecting and mining applications, as well as other coastal developments, she says, an overarching strategic environmental planning process to facilitate sustainable development in the west coast will be undermined.
The company says mining operations will boost local business and SMMEs and reduce youth and general unemployment. Its application was accepted in April. A draft Basic Assessment Report and Environmental Management Programme was released in June to interested and affected parties for comment, closing 15 July.
"The presence of an authorised and environmentally responsible company on site will also help to mitigate the problem of illegal diggers, crayfish poaching, littering, illegal hunting, and plant collection, a common occurrence along the west coast," SRK states.
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Source: City_Press - 🏆 7. / 72 Read more »