Progressive rehabilitation certification application

SGME was engaged for our leading industry expertise to demonstrate that land affected by coal mining had been successfully rehabilitated to a standard that is suitable for its intended post-mining land use. The mine is located west of Toowoomba in Queensland and is an open-cut operation producing thermal coal for domestic and international markets. Conventional open-cut methods that are used at the mine typically result in post-mining landforms that are built upon elevated waste rock and tailings storage facility emplacements.

The mine sought progressive rehabilitation certification for 376.9 hectares of rehabilitated land (the certification area). To achieve certification, the mine operator needed to demonstrate that they had met the requirements described in the Environmental Protection Act 1994 (EP Act).

The mine operator required a recognised industry leading expert to prepare a final rehabilitation report that demonstrated compliance with their environmental licence, land outcome documents and the EP Act.

SGME addressed the requirements for the certification area by preparing a final rehabilitation report that aligned with legislative requirements, the environmental licence, land outcome documents and best practice. This ensured that the rehabilitation certification application met all necessary criteria.

SGME’s approach was primarily to ensure requirements of the environmental licence had been met. This involved preparing an estimated rehabilitation cost and verifying that monitoring, air and water quality management, land use planning and infrastructure management had been done to a high standard. By carefully addressing these requirements, SGME ensured that the rehabilitation certification application was thorough and compliant. SGME also focused on meeting the standards referenced in land outcome documents which provided a framework for achieving rehabilitation targets and sustainability post-mining.

SGME consistently demonstrates exemplary proficiency in preparing environmental approval, management and planning documents for the mining industry. We showcase meticulous attention to detail, comprehensive data analysis and a steadfast commitment to regulatory compliance. Our ability to succinctly encapsulate complex environmental processes into clear and compelling reports drives transparency and underscores our dedication to environmental stewardship, sustainable land management and creating enduring value.