As a substantial resource development the proposed West Pilbara Iron Ore Project (the “Project”) will, if implemented, result in some unavoidable environmental impact, primarily related to alteration of the natural landscape and consumption of natural resources, including energy. The study and detailed design of the Project presents a valuable opportunity to minimise these unavoidable impacts, and to consider initiatives that provide for enhanced local or regional environmental outcomes that, without the Project, would be unlikely to occur.
API has the benefit of over two years of intensive environmental studies for consideration in Stage 1 of the Project design. We are developing a systematic, risk based approach to the environmental management of the Project which will be consistent with the requirements of International Standard ISO 140001 and be substantially complete prior to the implementation of the Project. These studies are being undertaken by consultants generally recognised as leaders in their respective fields of expertise and API continues to consult widely on how we might be able to contribute to the benefit of the local environment.
An environmental policy has been adopted by API to describe the overarching objectives and direction for management.
The Environmental Scoping Document (mine & rail) for the mine and rail elements of the project has been approved by the State Environmental Protection Authority (EPA). Work continues on the preparation of the Public Environmental Review (PER) for the mine and rail proposal, in accord with the terms of the approved scoping document.
The EPA set the environmental assessment for the port element of the project at the level of Public Environmental Review, with an 8 week public review period. A draft Environmental Scoping Document for the port proposal has been prepared and preparation of a PER for the port proposal continues.