Sustainability
Environment
Environmental risks identified at each operation inform our group risk register.
We focus particularly on risks related to closure in terms of the Financial Provision Regulations of the National Environmental Management Act, environmental incidents categorised as level 3 (major impact and/or non-compliance) and above, as well as water-related liabilities. We also consider the impacts of environmental incidents categorised below level 3 (minor and intermediate impacts and/or non-compliance).
Climate change & greenhouse gas emissions
Understanding the risks and opportunities associated with climate change and energy use is key for Seriti’s long-term sustainability. We have developed plans for pollution prevention and energy efficiency management aimed at supporting our progress towards low-carbon production, including various mitigation measures to reduce GHG emissions at each of our operations.
Air quality
We monitor fugitive dust fallout and particulate matter at all of our collieries to assess levels of nuisance and particulate matter concentrations.
Water management
South Africa is a water-scarce developing country. We therefore understand the importance of conserving our water resources and optimising our consumption. Our water resource management strategy considers the impact of our water use on surrounding ecosystems and host communities. We focus on all aspects of water management, aiming to minimise the contamination of resources, ensure the containment of contaminated water and optimise water reuse on site.
Land stewardship
We take seriously our role of stewardship of the land on which our operations are located today, or have affected in the past. As far as possible, we undertake concurrent rehabilitation, both to minimise closure costs, but also to reduce long-term land impacts.
Financial provision for immediate closure is in place and updated on an annual basis.
We believe that proper land rehabilitation and management practices naturally encourage the return of indigenous species of fauna and flora. Our collieries all have biodiversity action plans in place to control invasive alien species and encourage the propagation of indigenous species.
We continue to explore opportunities for social closure of the operations that will empower our host communities long after the end of mine life.
Seriti is involved in studies to ensure sustainable post-mining land use, including intensive agriculture programmes on mined-out land. We are also in the process of identifying additional approaches to using rehabilitated land that will empower our host communities.
Note that this data is for the 2020 financial year, and therefore predates the formation of Seriti Power
Waste management
As a large-scale operator, waste generation is a significant aspect of our business that requires meticulous management.
Waste production is a factor of the amount of products and services we consume at any given time. By becoming more resource-efficient, and by examining the packaging that comes with the products we consume, we can reduce the amount of waste generated by our operations. We are also actively trying to reduce hydrocarbon spills and leaks, which in turn reduces the amount of hazardous waste generated. Where possible, we substitute a harmful chemical with a more environment-friendly alternative.
Seriti practices waste management as part of our commitment to being a responsible land steward.
