Eclipse Metals Ltd (ASX:EPM) has engaged a leading European consultancy group to assist with environmental and social impact assessments (EIA and SIA) for its Ivittuut Project in Greenland.
The group will assist with project description, collection of baseline data, stakeholder mapping, public consultation and other EIA and SIA-related activities.
The studies will provide guidance on how best to move forward with the development of Ivittuut
Moving forward, Eclipse has now begun its 2022 field season at Ivittuut with drilling at an REE-focused Grønnedal prospect expected to kick off in early October this year.
Greater understanding of potential impacts
Eclipse executive chairman Carl Popal said work to be completed by the consultancy would be important in progressing the company’s development of Ivittuut.
He adds: “Overall, results of this work will put Eclipse in a better position with greater understanding of potential impacts on these aspects so that we can make decisions on Ivittuut’s development.
“In Greenland, all projects need to complete an EIA and SIA as part of any mining licence application so once this work is complete we will have a better understanding of what’s needed to move forward at Ivittuut.”
Work program
The consultancy will work with Eclipse to assist in preparing environmental and social impact assessments (EIA and SIA) required for its application for a mining licence at Ivittuut from Greenland’s Mineral Licenses and Safety Authority (MLSA).
This work will include data collection, mapping and public consultation for environmental and social studies.
The estimated timeframe for the completion and submission of these reports is usually two to three years.
Eclipse expects that this timeframe will be reduced due to existing documents and reports held by the company, which will contribute to forming part of the scoping phase for the SIA undertaken by Eclipse.
Furthermore, the company recently received approval from the MLSA to commence its 2022 field season at Ivittuut, which will include a planned drill programme at the Grønnedal REE prospect.