ENVIRONMENTAL OVERVIEW AND ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR EXPLORATION ACTIVITIES ON EXCLUSIVE PROSPECTING LICENCE EPL4185 AT WLOTZKASBAKEN January 2013 Prepared by: Gecko Namibia (Pty) Ltd Gecko House 8 Sinclair Road Windhoek, Namibia Reviewed by: Nam Enviro Management and Training Services cc Mutjinde Katjiua
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ENVIRONMENTAL OVERVIEW AND ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN
FOR EXPLORATION ACTIVITIES ON EXCLUSIVE PROSPECTING LICENCE
6. INDUSTRIAL USES OF THE LICENSE AREA ............................................................................................... 14
6.1 SALT COMPANY ................................................................................................................................... 14
6.2 AREVA REVERSE OSMOSIS DESALINATION PLANT AT WLOTZKASBAKAN ................................. 14
7.1 AGGREGATES FOR THE VIP DEVELOPMENT: SAND, CRUSHED ROCK, BOULDERS AND AMOUR STONE ................................................................................................................................................. 14
7.1.3 General reconnaissance for industrial minerals mineralization within the EPL .............................. 15
7.1.4 Further work to explore the possibility of crystallizing salt within the area ..................................... 15
8. DESCRIPTION OF THE PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT AND ASSESSMENT OF POTENTIAL IMPACT BY THE ENVISAGED EXPLORATION ................................................................................................................ 15
8.1.2 Local Geology ................................................................................................................................ 16
8.2.3 Temperature .................................................................................................................................. 20
8.3 AIR QUALITY AND NOISE LEVELS ...................................................................................................... 21
8.3.1 Baseline Air Quality for the Region ................................................................................................ 21
8.5 OTHER POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ................................................................................ 28
8.5.1 Archaeology and Cultural History .................................................................................................. 28
8.5.2 Health and Safety .......................................................................................................................... 28
8.5.3 Hazardous Materials and Waste Management .............................................................................. 28
8.5.4 Land Use ....................................................................................................................................... 29
9.2 WORKFORCE AND ACCOMMODATION.............................................................................................. 32
9.3 WATER .................................................................................................................................................. 32
9.4 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND REHABILITATION ................................................................. 32
10. IDENTIFICATION OF POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ARISING FROM THE ENVISAGED EXPLORATION ACTIVITIES .......................................................................................................................... 34
12. LIST OF ATTACHMENTS .............................................................................................................................. 41
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1. INTRODUCTION
Gecko Namibia is a wholly Namibian-owned private company, which was established in 2008
by Mr. Kobus Smit and a number of Namibian partners. A number of ventures and
subsidiaries were created in the field of industrial minerals and services to the Namibian
mining industry.
Gecko Namibia holds EPL4185 in the name of its subsidiary Gecko Salt (Pty) Ltd. The mineral
exploration license is situated along the central Namibian coast and covers 75,335 hectares. It
was granted by the Ministry of Mines and Energy on 19 June 2009; the Environmental
Clearance was issued by the Ministry of Environment and Tourism on 17 September 2009.
The exploration project targets to secure the supply of fine and coarse aggregate materials for
Gecko’s Vision Industrial Park (VIP) development. Another aspect is the exploration, testing
and resource definition for the production of armour stone material for the building of a
breakwater facility at the VIP site.
Gecko focuses on the development of projects in the industrial mineral sector in Namibia.
Independent of the VIP development, the company is busy exploring a number of occurrences
of high-grade calcitic marbles within this EPL.
An EIA and EMP is presented in application for an Environmental Clearance Certificate for the
prospecting operations in line with the Environmental Management Act of 2007 and the
corresponding Regulations which came into effect on 6 February 2012.
2. OBJECTIVES OF THE PROJECT
2.1 EXPLORATION ON EPL4185
Gecko recognizes that Namibia possesses excellent potential with a number of industrial
minerals, which are as yet still untapped. Engaging in exploration, mining and value-adding
were possible, both upstream and downstream, results in products for which great demand
currently exists in the local and global markets.
The VIP project was borne from the need of the emerging uranium mines in Namibia for
locally produced leaching reagents. A separate Environmental Scoping Study was conducted
for this project and an EIA for this envisaged development is on its way.
One of the objectives of Gecko Namibia (Pty) Ltd is to provide sustained employment to
Namibians. Thereby a local input into the economy of the country and the mining industry can
be achieved in particular through export of products and subsequent foreign exchange
earnings.
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Within EPL4185 a number of potentially viable mineral occurrences are present. Exploration
work on this license can be divided into two main purposes.
Supply of building materials to the envisaged VIP project and associated
infrastructure. This includes securing of different fractions of aggregate materials
for mortar, concrete and railway ballast. For the construction of a harbour and
marine breakwater different options of armour stone materials are being assessed.
Mineral exploration for a variety of industrial rocks. Emphasis is given on calcium
carbonate, feldspar and areas suitable for salt crystallisation.
2.2 OBJECTIVES OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EIA)
The objective of this Environmental Impact Assessment for the prospecting activities is to
ascertain the potential effects those have on the local environment in its broadest sense.
The objectives of this document are to:
Communicate the results of the EIA for the ongoing and proposed exploration
activities
Ensure that the impacts identified are adequately addressed
Facilitate an informed, transparent and accountable decision-making process by the
relevant authorities
3. ADMINISTRATIVE AND LEGAL FRAMEWORK
There are a number of laws In accordance with the national legal framework which are
applicable to the proposed site:
LAW/ORDINANCE APPLICABILITY
The constitution of Namibia (1990) Article 95 (1)
Preservation of Namibia's Ecosystems, essential ecological process and biological diversity
Sustainable use of Natural Resources
Environmental Assessment Policy of 1995
Prescribes Environmental Impact Assessments for any developments with potential negative impacts on the Environment
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Water Resource Management Act 24 of 2004
Effluent discharge permit required under section 56
Seawater abstraction permit required under Section 32
Water related pollution and abstraction
Environmental Management Act 7 of 2007 with Regulations of 2012
Establishes Principles for EA
Ensures that significant effects of activities are considered timorously and carefully
Allows for opportunities for participation by I & APs throughout the assessment process
Sea Birds and Seals Protection Act 46 of 1973 (Replaced by the Marine Resources Act, 27 of 2000)
No disturbance of sea birds and seals
Seashore Ordinance 37 of 1958 as amended in 1982
Removal of living and non-living resources from seashore or seabed and depositing of rubbish within 3 nautical miles of the sea shore
Nature Conservation Ordinance 4 of 1975 with amendments and special regulations
Protection of various species
Convention of Biological Diversity Protection of various species
Atmospheric Pollution Prevention Ordinance No.11 of 1976 with amendments as well as the associated proclamations of controlled areas
Pollution prevention
Hazardous Substance Ordinance 14 of 1974, and amendments
Pollution prevention
Petroleum Products and Energy amendment Act of 2000
Disposal of used oil
Draft Pollution and Waste Management Bill (1999)
Protection for particular species, resources or components of the environment
National Monuments act Disturbance of shipwrecks, archaeological and cultural sites
Convention on Desertification of 1994
Combating desertification and mitigation of the effects of drought
Minerals (Prospecting and Mining) Act 33 of 1992 and special regulations
Exploration and exploitation of mineral resources
Table-1: Legal framework applicable the exploration work
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4. ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
4.1 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
4.1.1 Location and geography of the area
EPL 4185 covers 75,335 hectares. From the southern boundary which is situated within the
municipal lands of Swakopmund the license stretches north-west along the coast line for
approximately 51 km to just south-east of the town lands of Henties Bay. The width of the
license varies from 11 to 26 km with an average of about 14 km. An overview on the license
and a table rendering the corner coordinates are given below.
Geographically the license is situated within the coastal plains of the Central Namib Desert.
The EPL area consists mainly of flat ground with some rolling and hilly terrain. Steeper
topography occurs in the north-eastern portion of the license. The highest elevation of 261
metres AMSL is found close to the license boundary in the north-eastern part of the EPL.
The Namib coast is an extremely arid area, which is interspersed with several ephemeral,
westward-flowing rivers which drain the hinterland and dissect the coastal landscape.
The drainage system in the prospecting area is that of an alluvial plain which covers the
Namib platform as a broad, braided stream system. The rivers are all ephemeral with only
erratic and very short-lived flow which often only happens every couple of years (3). The
longitudinal profile along the drainage shows a convexity towards the sky due to the result of
discharge reduction downstream (21).
The area is characterised by a hot, hyper-arid climate typical for a Namibian west coast desert
environment. Rainfall is scarce, totalling an average of 30 mm per year. Fog precipitation is
the prime source of water supply to the area, but this is highly dependent on topography and
inclination of the receiving surfaces. In particular locations fog precipitation can be as high as
200 mm per annum, but this is site specific and generally decreasing from the coastline. It
varies between 25 and approximately 100 days of fog per year. Also the evaporation rate is
strongly dependant on the distance from the coast and varies within the area between
approximately 1400 mm and 3300 mm per annum (22).
4.1.2 Land ownership and surface rights
Except of the municipal lands of Swakopmund and the peri-urban area of Wlotzkasbaken the
extent of the EPL is situated on state land. The state land is all governed by the rules and
regulations concerning the Doros National Park which was proclaimed over the area in
December 2010.
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4.1.3 Exploration Targets
The exploration targets pursued within EPL4185 are the commodity suite of industrial
minerals with emphasis on salt, calcium carbonates, silica, gypsum, feldspar as well as
aggregate materials from fine (sand) to coarse and armour stones. Work conducted within
this area is intimately linked to Gecko’s VIP development. Requirements for the production of
the envisaged suite of alkaline chemicals are salt and limestone. Therefore initial exploration
comprised the establishment of a potential resource of marble as lime source as well as the
reconnaissance work for establishing a salt production facility. Gecko also investigated the
potential resources of gypsum in view of roasting the mineral to produce sulphuric acid.
Four alternative sites for the development of VIP were investigated in detail within EPL4185
during the project’s scoping study. For the envisaged industrial development together with a
port and bulk handling facility large quantities of coarse and fine aggregates as well as armour
stone will be required.
The investigation for calcium carbonate as lime raw material has resulted in the discovery of
large potential deposits of high-grade calcitic marbles. The targets generated from detailed
mapping are shown with Attachment-1.
4.1.4 Exploration conducted and activities undertaken to date
4.1.4.1 Solar salt
With evaporation exceeding by far the precipitation rate, the Namib Desert offers ideal
conditions and the opportunity to produce salt by solar evaporation. Numerous salt pans
occur within the area of the EPL, several of them have been in production on a small scale in
the past. With the emerging of bigger operations at the Panter Beacon pans, north of
Swakopmund, which is situated just outside of the EPL, as well as at Cape Cross and at
Walvisbay, the smaller salt producers ceased operations in the 1950s (17).
Attachment-2 shows the natural salt pans existing within the EPL.
As part of a reconnaissance study Gecko has explored different options for producing salt
within EPL4185. The following opportunities were looked at:
Salt production by evaporation of sea water
Salt production by crystallising brine from Cape Cross salt pan (EPL4167)
Salt producing by evaporation of brine from the reverse osmosis process (Areva or
Namwater plants)
Gecko's consultant for the establishment of salt production, Vladimir Sedivy from Salt Partners
in Switzerland had looked at the individual options. For the production of salt from brine piped
from EPL4167 at Cape Cross a separate study was undertaken by Koos Calitz.
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4.1.4.2 Marble Exploration carried out and activities undertaken to date
4.1.4.2.1 Marble as lime raw material
One of the main mineral feed materials for the production of alkaline chemicals is calcium
carbonate. With a great plethora of marble occurrences within EPL4185 numerous potential
resources of lime raw material were looked at.
Initially an inventory of the different stratigraphic marble horizons was undertaken. The table
below gives a summary on the different carbonate lithologies present within the EPL together
with characteristics of the individual units.
Formation Member Lithocode Description
Arandis Okawayo Naroy Marble with interbedded calc-silicate rock; interbedded layers of siltstone and clasts of siltstone
Karibib Nkb Undifferentiated marble with minor calc-silicate rock,local mica schist
Karibib Arises river Nkbai White, coarse grained calcite marble; disseminated graphite and phlogopite flakes; rare calc silicates; layering poorly developed; frequent mylonite zones close to hanging wall contact
Karibib Otjongeama Nkboj yellowish brown impure marble with interbedded calc-silicate; thickness >500m; ~75% dolomitic calcite marble, marble and dolomite, ~25% calc silicate and bio schist
Karibib Onguati Nkbon Schist, impure marble and calc silicate rock
Rossing NRs Highly variable lithologies; bluish grey dolomitic marble, minor quartzite, metaconglomerate schist, gneiss and calc- silicate rock.
Table 3: Stratigraphic marble horizons within EPL4185 (12) During an initial reconnaissance survey the individual units were visited in the field. The
different rocks were described and the variance within the horizons was recorded where
possible. Samples were taken from a large number of occurrences after makroscopical
determination of the purity of the materials. When sufficient quality was indicated from those
grab samples, they were sent to a laboratory for full element analyses.
From the above testing and selection process samples from a marble occurrence named ME,
which forms part of the Karibib Formation indicated the best results. The ME marble
thereafter underwent detailed exploration comprising of mapping, pitting, groove sampling as
well as diamond drilling of ten boreholes.
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4.1.4.2.2 SwaCa marble project
In the southern portion of EPL4185 extensive lithologies of calcite marbles occur. A huge
reserve base of high-grade calcium carbonate is supplemented by areas of marbles with
calcium carbonate in access of 96% and very low iron content. Detailed mapping was done
and revealed a number of narrow bands which exhibit extraordinary calcite of high purity with
CaCO3 >99%. A large portion of the high-grade calcite forms a fold with very coarse grained
semi translucent crystals. In recent months Gecko has conducted a drilling program over
these high-grade occurrences. Holes were drilled as detailed with the following table.
Table 4: SwaCa Drilling program September to November 2012 Please note that the largest part of the marble resource under investigation falls within the
municipal area of Swakopmund and therefore outside the Dorob National Park. The area of
the SwaCa project is indicated with Attachment-1 in the southern portion of EPL4185.
A number of bulk samples of the high grade calcite were taken for purposes of test work in
order to upgrade the material to pure calcite for use as GCC in the paper and mineral filler
industry. The tests are presently still ongoing. Pending the results we are looking at
additional drilling, bulk sampling and trial mining concerning this project.
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4.1.4.2.3 Gypsum Exploration
Fortunately substantial work was undertaken on the gypsum mineralisation during historic
exploration programs within the area. Between 1968 and 1971 B&O Mineral Exploration
Company (Pty) Ltd. undertook detailed mapping and trenching within a large part of the
present EPL (20). During this exploration work a total of 141 prospect pits were dug down to
about 3 metres depth; most of those are still open in the field today.
All geological information and trench positions were digitized from the old records and
followed up in the field. Attachment-3 shows the trench positions and areas of sheet gypsum
mineralisation.
During the field work ground profiles were taken where it was possible but use was made
mostly of pits and trenches from the various exploration endeavours. Emphasis was given on
the composition and succession of the top gypsum sequence and 16 samples were taken for
analysis and determination of the bulk density of the materials.
4.1.4.3 Aggregates & armour stone raw material
Different potential rocks were evaluated as sources for the production of coarse and fine
aggregate material as well as for the cutting of armour stone in view of the planned
construction of a new harbour facility within VIP. Preliminary tonnages were calculated from
the early exploration data.
A high-level assessment of the availability of aggregates material within the license was
undertaken. The material considerations were conducted as part of the concept design stage
for a bulk harbour facility within VIP. For the erection of the envisaged marine structure
including a breakwater substantial volumes of different sized armour stone would be required.
Armour stone blocks are essential to protect a marine structure against wave and current
action and scouring.
Close proximity of the material quarry to the construction site is of great importance of the
viable supply of such materials for a marine structure.
Attachment-4 is an overview on the locations and sizes of the potential deposits determined
from this exploration program. A summary on the different options of aggregate source
material is enclosed as Attachment-5. The table also gives an overview on size and potential
tonnage of the envisaged deposits.
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5. EXISTING DAMAGE The entire area of EPL4185 shows numerous tracks. The amount of tracks reveal the
intensive presents of human activities in this area between Swakopmund and Henties Bay.
For the last century or more individuals as well as exploration teams, small and medium scale
miners and tourists have entered the area on their own liking. Human-induced disturbances
in the form of vehicle traffic on beaches and the desert plains cause a shearing and
compression of the soil that extends to depths of 20cm.
Former prospecting and mining has left trenches, pits and holes that were not rehabilitated.
The table below renders a list of historic exploration licenses which were granted within the
extent of the current EPL4185. Pictures and air-borne imagery from the license are compiled
with Attachment-6. The remnants of various forms of disturbance are highly visible from the
air and on the ground.
COMPANY NAME LICENCE NO Size - ha Informal name
Valid from
Valid to Mineral Groups
KAEMPFE, A F EPL17 10154.5 BEACH DEPOSITS 1959 1963 industrial minerals
ARTNELL EXPLORATION EPL25
1244263 1959 1964 non nuclear fuel
B & O MINERALS EPL230 397185.8 SWAKOP GYPSUM 1969 1971 base metals
RIO TINTO EPL541 90178.4 OAMITES EXTENSION
B & O MINERALS EPL599 96403.3
base metals
WESTERN MINING EPL600 75767.6 GOANIKONTES 1975 1983 nuclear fuel
KARSTEN, W M EPL612 50445.2 1975 1978 nuclear fuel
RAND MINES EPL889 64054.6 1978 1983 nuclear fuel
NAMEX EPL1599 40239.9 1986 1987
ISCOR EPL1986 84524.2 WLOTSKAS BAKEN 1994 1994 base metals
ISCOR EPL1987 49442.8 NONIDAS 1994 1994 base metals
API MINING EPL2403 98639.0 base metals
MINERAL MINING INDUSTRIES EPL2635 86754.6 SWAKOPMUND 1999 2002 industrial minerals
groundwater of the extent or quality suitable for human consumption is know. Only saline
aquifers appear to be present under the entire area (2). All water needed to support drilling
operations will be trucked in from off-site.
Potential / actual impacts
Low. No ground water abstraction takes place within the larger area.
Only small amounts of water will be required. This will be trucked in.
8.5.8 Accommodation of Exploration Labour
Only a limited number of personnel is required for conducting the envisaged exploration work.
For all activities, except of drilling programs, the people will reside in Swakopmund and only
come to the exploration area for the day.
During any drilling program a temporary tented camp will be established on site. Chemical
toilets will be erected and their use is compulsory for all personnel working with the drilling
program.
Potential / actual impacts
low because of the limited range and duration of activities and small number of
workers and equipment required during exploration
Uncontrolled off-road driving destroys and creates new tracks
Collection of firewood poses hazard to plant life and vegetation
Waste storage and littering
8.5.9 Conduct of the Workers
All people working in the area must be made aware of the important features of their
environment and the importance of protecting them. Certain basics rules are laid out and it
has to be ensured that these rules are being adhered to. Some of the most important ones
are:
No killing or capturing of animals
No littering
No speeding
Driving only on existing roads
Problems associated with the conduct of the work force are be mitigated by giving the workers
a basic training and outlining and stressing the importance of abiding by the rules. Penalties
and fines may in some cases be required in order to ensure adherence to these rules.
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8.5.10 Tourism
The EPL falls within the Dorob National Park, which stretches from Swakopmund 200km
northwards to the Ugab River. The area is renowned for its excellent angling potential and
visited annually by thousands of fishermen. A particular environmental feature along this
stretch of coastline is the extensive lichen fields which are orientated in a north-easterly
direction. These are threatened by uncontrolled off-road driving. With tight management
control to make sure that the rules laid out in the Environmental Management Plan are
adhered to in a proper manner, no significant negative impact is expected to derive from the
exploration activities. A positive factor in this is that the mineral targets are not visible from
any of the official roads.
Potential / actual impacts
low because of the limited range of activities and small number of workers and equipment
required during exploration
9. MANAGEMENT PLAN TO MITIGATE NEGATIVE IMPACTS
The purpose of the EMP is:
To summarise the project activities that have the potential for adverse environmental
impacts.
To identify and outline the aspects of the environment which require management.
To compile Project Environmental Specifications for inclusion in contract documents
and enforcement on site.
To set out the roles and responsibilities of all role-players with regard to environmental
management.
To specify rehabilitation requirements.
To establish monitoring requirements to ensure that all staff members on site comply
with the Environmental Specifications. One of the senior geological team members on
site should be designated to perform this function on a day-to-day basis.
Gecko’s management is conscious of the company’s special operating conditions within the
Dorob National Park. The company is emphasizing on all staff being aware of the DOs and
DON’Ts in this project and area.
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9.1 INFRASTRUCTURE
Equipment Items
Vehicles 1 to 2 4x4 vehicle
Drilling equipment (note: only one drilling
method will be conducted at the time)
1 diamond drill rig; 1 equipment truck; 1 water truck;
Bulk sampling 1 excavator; 1 truck
Table 6: Vehicles and equipment to be used during the exploration work planned
9.2 WORKFORCE AND ACCOMMODATION
Mapping and sampling will include 2 -3 people in the field at any given time. The individuals
are accommodated in Swakopmund.
During drilling operations approximately 4 - 6 people will be working on site – the drill crew
and one geologist. A maximum of 4 of these people will be accommodated at a temporary
exploration camp near the drilling project.
During bulk sampling the excavation team will also be housed at Swakopmund.
9.3 WATER
A rough estimate shows that approximately 40 – 50 m3 per month is needed during diamond
drilling per drill rig. As per procedure during the previous drilling programs within the license,
the water will be trucked in from Swakopmund, purchased from the Municipality of
Swakopmund. The amount of water includes the requirements at the camp for human
consumption.
9.4 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND REHABILITATION
Gecko Salt / Namibia (Pty) Ltd will submit annual Environmental Reports to the Ministry
stating the exploration activities and environmental performance of the project. Staff of the
MET or Ministry of Mines and Energy may at any time inspect the exploration area. Internal
and external monitoring should involve Gecko’s safety and environmental department and
members of the MET.
Should the decision be taken that the project is not economically viable the area will be
rehabilitated. The rehabilitation measures that are set out in the EMP are binding to all
personnel on site including the crew and contractors.
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The main environmental impacts will occur during the drilling activities and pitting and it must
be ensured that rehabilitation takes place at the end of each exploration phase, especially
before the drilling crew leaves the site.
Unnecessary vehicle movement will be minimised. All vehicular movement must make us of
existing tracks and roads as far as possible.
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10. IDENTIFICATION OF POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ARISING FROM THE ENVISAGED EXPLORATION ACTIVITIES
Table 7 sets out the general aspects and potential environmental impacts arising specifically from the envisaged exploration activities
Activity Aspect Affected
environment Potential impact
Mitigation measure/recommendations/explanation
Exploration initiation
To establish a strong Environmental Awareness Protocol from the beginning of the exploration programme in order to ensure the least possible damage to the environment.
General EPL area General behaviour of exploration team in the EPL area.
Provision in the budget is made for Environmental Awareness and training and for internal and external Environmental Monitoring Costs as well as for rehabilitation.
Appointment of a senior person to assume responsibility for environmental issues (Environmental Officer).
All individuals who work on, or visit, the sites are aware of the contents of the EMP.
The EMP should be included in all Tender Documents.
Field visit should take place during which main access tracks should be discussed in co-operation with the Ministry of Environment and Tourism staff members or representatives.
Implementation of the EMP
To define roles and responsibilities in terms of the EMP. To make all persons aware of these roles and responsibilities to ensure that exploration activities are conducted in compliance with the EMP. To implement environmental management that is preventative and proactive.
General EPL area General behaviour of exploration team in the EPL area.
Senior exploration staff and all senior contractors are aware of, and implementing, EMP requirements. These people shall be expected to know and understand the objectives of the EMP and will, by example, encourage suitable environmentally aware behaviour to be adopted on all sites.
Immediate recognition should be given to appropriate environmentally acceptable behaviour. Any inappropriate behaviour should be immediately corrected. An explanation as to why the behaviour is unacceptable must be given, and, if necessary, the person should be disciplined.
Environmental awareness briefings
To implement environmental awareness briefings for all individuals who visit,
General EPL area General behaviour of exploration team in the EPL
Every senior/supervisory member of the team is to familiarise themselves with the contents of the EMP and to understand their roles and responsibilities in 'walking the talk' and ensuring
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Activity Aspect Affected
environment Potential impact
Mitigation measure/recommendations/explanation
or work, on site. area. compliance with the EMP.
If agreed upon the Environmental Officer will hold an Environmental Awareness Briefing meeting which has to be attended by all exploration and drill contractors before the start of the drilling operation. The meeting should discuss the potential dangers to the environment of the following activities: littering, off-road driving, waste disposal, poaching & plant theft etc. The need to conserve water and implement water saving measures should also be presented.
The need for soil / substrate preservation should be explained.
Public relations To maintain sound relationships with the
landowner (MET)
Inform the relevant person at MET regarding movement.
No littering occurs.
Management of hazardous substances
To minimise the risk of pollution through the implementation of all reasonable measures to prevent leakage, spillage or inappropriate disposal of hazardous substances. To minimise the risk of hazardous substances affecting the health of all individuals and plant and animal life. To use biodegradable products as far as is reasonably possible.
General environment
The Project Manager / Geologist and Contractor have identified all activities that involve the handling of potentially hazardous substances and protocols for the handling of these substances have been put in place and their implementation supervised. Hazardous substances are handled in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications and existing legal requirements.
The Project Manager / Geologist encourages the use of the least polluting, most rapidly biodegradable cleaning product, solvent, etc.
The Project Manager / Geologist and Contractor will ensure that all individuals, who could be exposed to hazardous substances, are adequately protected and educated about the safe and proper methods for handling of these substances.
Procedures for the containment and clean up of accidental hazardous accidents are developed by the Project Manager / Geologist in accordance to the manufacturer’s specifications.
The Project Manager / Geologist or Contractor should immediately implement actions to stop or reduce and contain any spills.
The Project Manager / Geologist arranges and supervises
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Activity Aspect Affected
environment Potential impact
Mitigation measure/recommendations/explanation
implementation of the necessary clean up procedures and proper disposal of contaminated soil, water and other materials at an approved facility.
Clean up, and dispose of contaminated soil at an official waste site.
Waste management
To maintain a clean and tidy site / area.
Fauna, general environment, visual impact
Disturbance to fauna. Visual impact
The following waste management procedures shall be implemented:
Minimisation of waste production;
Where possible, compact waste to reduce its bulk;
What is taken in has to be taken out and disposed of at an official waste site;
Waste containers with suitable lids are provided on site;
Illegal dumping and littering is not to be tolerated.
Accommodation (during exploration drilling only)
Provision for environmental camp standards, waste management and rehabilitation; Disturbance of general environment
Camp area and surroundings; Fauna, Flora
General behaviour of exploration team in the EPL. Disturbance to fauna & flora. Visual impact
The geological / geophysical team is accommodated in Swakopmund.
A long drop or chemical toilet must be established at the camp. Gecko / the contractor is responsible for the maintenance of this toilet. After programme completion the long drop will be decommissioned.
Development of Access Roads and Tracks
Disturbance of general environment
General environment
Visual impact. Destruction of flora
The old tracks which were pre-existing to exploration activities shall be used to access the target area.
No additional new tracks shall be made or otherwise be rehabilitated. If practically possible areas will be entered on foot. To enter the drill sites as much as possible along previously established tracks.
All newly created tracks shall be rehabilitated after the drilling program has been finalized.
Management of drill sites
To undertake and rehabilitate the respective drilling programmes in such a
Disturbance of natural
environment
Loss of indigenous vegetation Disturbance of
Impervious rubber or plastic sheeting is to be used to prevent pollution by diesel, oil and other related sources of pollution.
All litter is placed in a container with a lid that is secured
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Activity Aspect Affected
environment Potential impact
Mitigation measure/recommendations/explanation
manner that it will be difficult to determine where these activities took place in 5 years time.
fauna against wind. The rubbish is taken to an official waste site.
Soil contaminated by oil or diesel is removed and dumped on an approved dumpsite and the area treated to neutralize hydrocarbon contamination.
The area of disturbance around the borehole site is kept as small as possible.
Boreholes (not drilled at an angle) that intersect water have the casing left in them, the top of the hole around the casing is grouted and the borehole capped before rehabilitating the area.
Holes / site are rehabilitated before moving to the next site to minimise vehicle movement to the area.
Open water should be fenced off and preferably covered during night to avoid attraction of bees and wildlife.
Sumps are fenced in to avoid fatalities of animals attracted by the water.
Surface & groundwater management
To conserve water. To avoid the pollution of any water and prevent polluted water from entering stream channels or underground aquifers. To monitor the rest water
levels and quality of production boreholes, if water is encountered.
General environment
Visual Groundwater / stream pollution
Borehole rest water levels and quality are recorded.
Working areas, where hazardous substances are handled or stored, are designed to collect and contain hazardous substances. Impervious materials are provided, e.g. drip trays, or sumps to collect and contain liquid pollutants.
Site rehabilitation To rehabilitate the drill sites and camp to as close an approximation of the pristine state as is financially and reasonably possible.
General environment
Visual impact Tourism activities
The following rehabilitation actions are recommended:
All drill mud and cores are removed from site to avoid additional scars in the landscape;
All litter from the site i.e. bottles, tins, piping, etc are taken to an appropriate disposal site.
All debris, scrap metal, etc is removed before moving to a new drill site.
All drilling mud is either disposed of in the open borehole or
EMP for Gecko Namibia (Pty) Ltd exploration activities on EPL 4185 38
Activity Aspect Affected
environment Potential impact
Mitigation measure/recommendations/explanation
taken off site and disposed of at an official waste site.
All water tanks are dismantled and removed.
All sumps are covered and contoured. The stored top soil / substrate is distributed and raked over the disturbed site.
2 years after rehabilitation the drill sites are not visible from 500m.
Management of the natural habitat
To avoid, or reduce, the potential negative impact on the bio-physical environment, including the scenic value thereof.
Disturbed areas are kept to a minimum.
No incidents of poaching or illegal plant or reptile collection are reported. Offenders will be handed over to the authorities.
No permanent infrastructure will be developed at the exploration camp;
No domestic or other animals are brought to the exploration site.
Any person who causes wilful or malicious damage to the environment will be held responsible for repairing the damage immediately and handed over to the authorities.
Managing natural heritage sites & artifacts
To avoid disturbance of known archaeological / palaeontological sites. To record accurately any
new sites found and report to the responsible
authority.
The likelihood that a new site will be found during the exploration work is minimal. However the following measures are to be implemented in case of any new found:
Documented consultation with an archaeologist, and/or local expertise when in doubt.
All individuals are aware of which areas are sensitive.
Every pile (not waste or ore material dumps) of stones is treated as a possible archaeological site. Do not use them, as the rocks could be a burial cairn or hunting blind.
No heritage objects are moved without a permit from the National Monuments Council and any permitted removal of heritage objects is done under the supervision of a qualified archaeologist, palaeontologist or historian.
Any archaeological sites that are found are not be disturbed, but be carefully photographed, the exact location recorded and
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Activity Aspect Affected
environment Potential impact
Mitigation measure/recommendations/explanation
the finding reported to the National Monuments Council.
Visual quality Management
To preserve the scenic aspects of the target area and surroundings. To minimise visual impacts created by exploration as far as reasonably possible.
Tourism activities
The movement and use of vehicles be limited to prevent unnecessary damage to vegetation.
could be potential sites of scientific interest are not defaced.
No new tracks are created as far as practically possible.
The exploration camp and any other area disturbed by exploration activities are rehabilitated.
Establishment of pits
To keep the disturbance of flora at a minimum Try to minimize the visual impact as much as possible.
Flora Loss of (indigenous) vegetation Visual impact Tourism activities
Locate pits at sites suitable for sampling purpose and where the least floral disturbance is encountered.
Locate pits at sites suitable for sampling purpose and where they are least visible to the public.
2. Christellis, G, et al, 2001. Groundwater in Namibia. An explanation to the Hydrogeological Map. Publ. Dept o Water Affairs, Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Rural Development. P.15
3. GIESS, W. 1971, 1998. Eine vorläufige Vegetationskarte von Südwestafrika. - Dinteria 4: 31-114
4. Goldreich, Y. and Tyson, 1988. Diurnal and Inter-Diurnal Variations in Lage-Scale Atmospheric Turbulence over Southern Africa. South African Geographical Journal, 70(1). P 48-56
5. Griffin, M. 2003. ‘Annotated checklist and provisional national conservation status of Namibian reptiles’. Ministry of Environment and Tourism, Windhoek.
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7. Liebenberg-Enslin, H, 2011.: Strategic Environmental Assessment for the Central Namib ‘Uranium Rush- Air Quality Specialist Report, APP/09/MME-02-Rev0.
8. Liebenberg-Enzlin, H., Krause, N., 2011. VIP Site Option Ranking: Air Quality and Noise Impact Evaluation. Report No.: App/11/GHN-01, 41p
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11. Mendelsohn J., Jarvis, A., Roberts, C. and Robertson, T., 2002. Atlas of Namibia: A portrait of the land and its people. David Philip Publishers, Cape Town.
12. Miller, R. McG. 2008. The Geology of Namibia: Vol.2, Neoproterozoic to lower Palaeozoic. geol. Surv., Windhoek, Namibia.
13. Miller, R. McG. 2008. The Geology of Namibia: Vol.3, Palaeozoic to lower Cenozoic. geol. Surv., Windhoek, Namibia.
14. Molloy F. and Reinikainen T. (2003) Namibia’s Marine Environment, Directorate of Environmental Affairs, Ministry of Environment and Tourism. Cape Town, South Africa.
15. Pallett, 1995. The Sperrgebiet. Desert Research Foundation of Namibia and Namdeb Diamond Corporation, Windhoek, Namibia. P.84
16. Pasquill and Smith, 1983. Atmospheric Diffusion: Study of the dispersion of Windborne Material from Industrial and other sources. Ellis Horwood Ltd. Chichester. 437 pp