Abstract
M.Sc.
The main aim of this study is to give input concerning the compilation of the Environmental
Management Programme (EMP) as part of the requirements by the Department of Minerals and
Energy (DME) to develop a Standard EMP for the quarrying of aggregate resources. This study
is based on first hand experience gained from the compilation of EMPs for the N-3 Toll Road
aggregate quarry operations, with specific reference to the Vlakfontein Quarry.
This study is important because the quarrying of aggregate resources has been identified as a
mining activity which requires a different approach to that of the established Environmental
Management Programme Report (EMPR) procedures, based on the Aide-Mernoire for the
preparation of EMPRs. The provision of specific and detailed management requirements in the
proposed Generic EMP, aims at the prevention or pro-active minimisation of the impacts
associated with the quarrying of aggregate resources and subsequently ensures a common
standard in environmental management, acknowledging activity-specific circumstances. It must
be stressed however, that the study should not be viewed as a guideline document, isolated
from other accepted guidelines for the compilation of EMPs for the mining industry. It is indeed
based on the same objectives and principles as, inter alia the Aide-Memoire and the Mining
Environmental Management Guideline for Planning and Authorization, and should form part of
the guidelines for the preparation, compilation and implementation of EMP's for the mining
industry. Furthermore, the Generic EMP for the quarrying of aggregate resources as proposed
in this study should only be used in the following instances: where the exploitation of aggregate resources (minerals) are by means of the open-cast
mining method; and
in circumstances where not more than 600 000 tons of ore are removed per annum
(including the overburden) and/or when the total area disturbed by mining activities is
restricted to approximately 10 hectare at closure.
The Generic EMP was developed from aspects identified in the Environmental Assessment for
the Vlakfontein Quarry, which were conducted during the planning phase of the N-3 Toll Road
Project, and impacts identified through extensive literature studies. The Generic EMP was
compiled around the following:
Visual Intrusion
Take of land
Solid Waste Disposal
Aerial And Dust Pollution
Water Pollution, and
Noise and Vibration. Shortcomings concerning the guidelines for the compilation of EMPs were analysed and
studied, and guidelines in the form of a Generic EMP for the quarrying of aggregate resources
were prescribed. The compilation and implementation of the methods and guidelines in this
study, thus plays an important role in the future compilation of EMPs for the quarrying of
aggregate resources and the environment related to such quarries.