Theta Gold Mines Ltd (ASX:TGM) is moving into the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) phase of its MR 83 permitting process to support startup of the TGME Underground Project in South Africa, which comprises the Beta, Frankfort, CDM and Rietfontein gold mines.
A Final Scoping Report submitted earlier this month has been reviewed and accepted by the South African Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE).
This marks the conclusion of all environmental specialist and engineering designs required for the MR 83 permitting process necessary to progress underground mining and allows the company to proceed to the EIA phase of the Environmental Authorisation (EA) application process.
Buoyed by support
Chairman Bill Guy said: “The acceptance of the final scoping report received from the MRE marks a significant milestone for Theta as we have now completed all the required environmental specialist and engineering designs required for MR 83 permitting.
“It’s pleasing to see the support and endorsement we have received not only from the government but from our local communities and landowners who all have a direct interest under the BEE structure.
“As we move to the Environmental Impact Assessment stage, we expect to witness the same level of support from all stakeholders during our meetings and public open day.”
Focus on EIA
Theta's management will now focus on securing approval for the Draft EIA Report and Environmental Management Program (EIA/EMPr) which has been compiled for public comment.
This document is available for a 60-day public review and comment period which began on April 19, 2022.
During this review period, various meetings and a public open day will take place to address any comments and concerns from stakeholders.
The final EIA/EMPr will be submitted to the DMRE for approval in the September quarter of 2022 and a decision on the EA application is expected in the December quarter.
Other permitting
In addition, the Water Use Licence (WUL) application has been registered with the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) and a pre-application meeting was conducted with a DWS case officer. The WUL is a separate process from the EIA.
The draft Integrated Water and Waste Management Plan (IWWMP) has been compiled and is also available for public review, running parallel with the EIA phase public review period.
Final submission of the WUL application is scheduled for the September quarter and once submitted, the DWS will have 90 days to assess the application.
To continue mining in parts of the Beta and CDM Mines, approval from the Minister of the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) is also required. The DFFE has been offered an Ecological Compensation Program to assist with securing the future of the local catchment system.
ESG programs
As part of Theta ESG programs, Theta will cornerstone the investment with other NGOs to protect, rehabilitate and ensure the long-term sustainability of the local catchment area.
The proposed Ecological Compensation Program includes:
- Eradication and control of invasive alien plants species;
- Fire belt implementation;
- Rehabilitation of diverted streams and drainages;
- Implementation of erosion and sediment control;
- Facilitating the re-establishment of native grasslands and indigenous forests; and
- Optimising the hydrological functioning of the catchment area.
“Encouraging progress”
“At the Beta and CDM mines, by including the ecological compensation into our growing ESG program, we will positively affect the local catchment area for years to come,” Guy said.
“Our decision to cornerstone this investment and work with stakeholders and the DFFE is set to benefit future generations in the region.”
The Frankfort and Rietfontein mines which fall outside the Morgenzon forest nature reserve areas are excluded from the DFFE dealings and will not have to meet this requirement. Frankfort and Rietfontein and are only subject to the normal EA process.
The chairman added: "As we continue to make encouraging progress towards the DFS, I look forward to providing shareholders with ongoing updates.”