Projects

Engineering-environmental surveys in the area of ​​implementation of the silver deposit development project

Client: Confidential client
Location: Russia, Republic of Sakha (Yakutia)
Project: Engineering-environmental surveys in the area of ​​the silver deposit development project in accordance with the requirements of the Russian regulatory framework while simultaneously implementing an expanded research program to conduct an ESIA in accordance with international requirements
Purpose: Obtaining data on the initial state of the environment for the purposes of design, conducting an EIA in accordance with legal requirements, as well as conducting an ESIA in accordance with the requirements of the IFC and the requirements of the Toronto Exchange (report on Form 43-101).
Obtaining a positive conclusion from the State Environmental Expertise (SEE)
Approach:

To achieve the objectives, a two-stage approach was used:

  • Scoping study: visiting the site, studying available archival and literature data; drawing up a detailed research program and working out logistical issues;
  • Carrying out field, laboratory and analytical work, preparing reporting materials.

The territory was distinguished by large distances between objects, inaccessibility of some sampling points, as well as a significant distance from the site to laboratories - the issue of delivering samples to water laboratories no later than 72 hours after sampling (in accordance with regulatory requirements) required careful consideration.
In accordance with the requirements of international standards, in particular, Performance Standard 6 (Biodiversity conservation and sustainable management of natural resources), a fairly vast territory was subject to research, in which there were no roads: the routes were carried out on foot and on horseback.
Hydrological and hydrochemical surveys, hydrogeological and geomorphological studies and assessment of exogenous geological processes, radiological surveys and assessment of physical factors, geobotanical mapping and floristic studies were carried out, the biodiversity of terrestrial ecosystems was studied in the summer period, hydrobiological sampling, ichthyological examination and assessment of the fish food supply, landscape mapping of the territory was carried out.
Research organizations and analytical centers were involved in conducting research, modeling, testing, chemical analytical work and preparing reporting materials.
During the review of the report materials by experts from the State Environmental Expertise (SEE), specialists answered questions from experts and held working meetings.
Result:

  • The project, including the report on the results of engineering and environmental surveys, received a positive conclusion from the SEE;
  • For the report format 43-101 (Feasibility Study), a section was developed describing the background environmental conditions, as well as impacts, the significance of which was predicted taking into account the identified natural features;
  • Based on the data obtained, an ESIA was developed in an international format and provided to the Project lenders.
3.Environmental condition assessment and monitoring of territories and assets