Goonyella Complex Optimisation Study - Environmental Assessment
- Client Name
- BHP Coal
- Location
- Queensland, Australia
- Environmental & social impact assessment
- Ecology
- Hydrology
- Hydrogeology
Challenge
The objective of Goonyella Complex Optimisation Study (GCOS) selection phase study was to define the optimal resource utilisation and expansion strategy and prepare detailed environmental assessments at Goonyella Riverside Mine (GRM) and the adjacent Red Hill Mining Lease Project.
Solution
SLR was engaged to undertake the Environmental Assessment for the GCOS selection phase study, delivering the following tasks:
- Identification of preferred approvals strategy by identifying the available State and Commonwealth approval pathways, and identifying key benefits/risks associated with each process.
- Gap analysis through a review of all previous technical studies (including land, subsidence, surface water, groundwater, terrestrial ecology, aquatic ecology, air quality, noise, transport, social, and economics)and development of a forward work plan to support an environmental approval process.
- Options analysis of mine plans based on operational, reputational and environmental risk variables through risk workshops with BHP Coal.
- Environmental offsets through field surveys on priority offset properties, undertaking offset calculations for Commonwealth and State and preparation of a Biodiversity Offset Plan.
- Groundwater program development through review of historical hydrogeological studies and development of proposed groundwater monitoring program.