NOVEMBER 2016 REVISION 0. Prepared by: JG AFRIKA (PTY) LTD

Transcription

1 DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT REPORT & ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME REPORT: PROPOSED ESTABLISHMENT OF A STAGED MOBILE CRUSHING PLANT WITHIN THE CURRENT FOOTPRINT OF THE AMASUNDU GRAVEL CC QUARRY PIT NOVEMBER 2016 REVISION 0 Prepared by: JG AFRIKA (PTY) LTD Pietermaritzburg PO Box 794, Hilton 3245 Telephone: (033) vanrooyenm@jgafrika.com Project Director: M. van Rooyen

2 VERIFICATION PAGE Form Rev 13 TITLE: DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT REPORT & ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME REPORT: PROPOSED ESTABLISHMENT OF A STAGED MOBILE CRUSHING PLANT WITHIN THE CURRENT FOOTPRINT OF THE AMASUNDU GRAVEL CC QUARRY PIT JGA REF. NO.: DATE: 09/11/2016 REPORT STATUS: Final CARRIED OUT BY: JG AFRIKA (PTY) LTD PIETERMARITZBURG COMMISSIONED BY: AMASUNDU GRAVEL CC PO Box 794 Hilton 3245 PO Box 82 umtunzini 4340 Tel.: pietermaritzburg@jgafrika.com AUTHOR L. Dralle A. Bennet SYNOPSIS Tel: (035) Fax: (035) CLIENT CONTACT PERSON Environmental Impact Report written in compliance with GNR 982, Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Regulations (2014) for the establishment of a staged mobile crushing plant within the current footprint of the Amasundu Gravel cc quarry pit. The document is presented in the prescribed document format provided by the Authorising Authority. KEY WORDS: Draft, Environmental Impact Assessment, GNR 982, EIA Regulations (2014), Department of Mineral Resources template, Amasundu Gravel CC, Farm Obanjeni No COPYRIGHT: JG Afrika (Pty) Ltd. QUALITY VERIFICATION This report has been prepared under the controls established by a quality management system that meets the requirements of ISO9001: 2008 which has been independently certified by DEKRA Certification under certificate number Verification Capacity Name Signature Date By Author: Environmental Scientist L. Dralle 10/11/2016 Checked by: Executive Associate M. van Rooyen 10/11/2016 Authorised by: Executive Associate M. van Rooyen 10/11/2016 Filename: T:\ACTIVE PROJECTS\ Specialist Biodiversity and Wetland Studies\Amasundu Quarry\41539 Amasundu Quarries EMPr Amendment\2016 Application for Environmental Authorisation\3. EIA EMPr

3 Structure of Environmental Impact Report This Environmental Impact Report and Environmental Management Programme (EMPr) has been compiled in terms of the provisions contained within Appendix 3 and 4 of GNR 982 of the National Environmental Management Act (Act No. 107 of 1998) (NEMA): Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Regulations of The requirements thereof are cross-referenced with the various sections contained in this report, as detailed in Tables 1 and 2: TABLE 1: Structure of Environmental Impact Report. ASSESSMENT REPORT REGULATION REQUIREMENT (a) Details of (i) The EAP who prepared the report and; (ii) The expertise of the EAP, including a CV; (b) The location of the activity, including (i) The 21 digit Surveyor General code of each cadastral land parcel; (ii) Where available, the physical address and farm name; (iii) Where the required information in terms of (i) and (ii) is not available, the coordinates of the boundary of the property or properties; (c) A plan which locates the proposed activity or activities applied for at an appropriate scale, or, if it is (i) A linear activity, a description and coordinates of the corridor in which the proposed activity or activities is to be undertaken; or (ii) On land where the property has not been define, the coordinates within which the activity is to be undertaken; (d) A description of the scope of the proposed activity, including (i) All listed and specified activities triggered and being applied for; and (ii) A description of the associated structures and infrastructure related to development; (e) A description of the policy and legislative context within which the development is located and an explanation of how the proposed development complies with and responds to the legislation and policy context. (f) A motivation for the need and desirability for the proposed development, including the need an desirability of the activity in the context of the preferred location; (g) A motivation for the preferred development footprint within the approved site (i) Details of the development footprint alternatives considered; (ii) Details of the public participation process undertaken in terms of regulation 41 of the Regulations, including copies of the supporting documents and inputs; (iii) A summary of the issues raised by interested and affected parties, and an indication of the manner in which the issues were incorporated, or the reasons for not including them; (iv) The environmental attributes associated with the development footprint alternatives focusing on the geographical, physical, biological, social, economic, heritage and cultural aspects; (v) The impacts and risks identified including the nature, significance, consequence, extent, duration and probability of the impacts, including the degree to which these impacts (aa) can be reversed; (bb) may cause irreplaceable loss of resources; and (cc) can be avoided, managed or mitigated; (vi) The methodology used in determining and ranking the nature, significance, consequences, extent, duration and probability of potential environmental impacts and risks; (vii) Positive and negative impacts that the proposed activity and alternatives will have on the environment and on the community that may be affected focusing on the geographical, physical, biological, social, economic, heritage and cultural aspects (viii) The possible mitigation measures that could be applied and level of residual risk (ix) If no alternative development locations for the activity were investigated, the motivation for not considering such; and (x) A concluding statement indicating the preferred alternative development location within the approved site; SECTION ADDRESSED PART A: 3 (a) PART A: 3 (b) PART A: 3 (c) PART A: 3 (d) PART A: 3 (e) PART A: 3 (f) PART A: 3 (g)

4 ASSESSMENT REPORT REGULATION REQUIREMENT (h) A full description of the process undertaken to identify, assess and rank the impacts the activity and associated structures and infrastructure will impose on the preferred location through the life of the activity, including- (i) A description of all environmental issues and risks that were identified during the environmental impact assessment process; and (ii) An assessment of the significance of each issue and risk and an indication of the extent to which the issue and risk could be avoided or addressed by the adoption of mitigation measures; (i) An assessment of each identified potentially significant impact and risk, including- (i) Cumulative impacts; (ii) The nature, significance and consequences of the impact and risk; (iii) The extent and duration of the impact and risk; (iv) The probability of the impact and risk occurring; (v) The degree to which the impact and risk can be reversed; (vi) The degree to which the impact and risk may cause irreplaceable loss of resources; and (vii) The degree to which the impact and risk can be mitigated; (j) Where applicable, a summary of the findings and recommendations of any specialist report complying with Appendix 6 to these Regulations and an indication as to how these findings and recommendations have been included in the final assessment report; (k) An environmental impact statement which contains- (i) A summary of the key findings of the environmental impact assessment: (ii) Map at an appropriate scale which superimposes the proposed activity and its associated structures and infrastructure on the environmental sensitivities of the preferred site indicating any areas that should be avoided, including buffers; and (iii) A summary of the positive and negative impacts and risks of the proposed activity and identified alternatives; (l) Based on the assessment, and where applicable, recommendations from specialist reports, the recording of proposed impact management objectives, and the impact management outcomes for the development for inclusion in the EMPr as well as for inclusion as conditions of authorisation; (m) The final proposed alternatives which respond to the impact management measures, avoidance, and mitigation measures identified through the assessment; (n) Any aspects which were conditional to the findings of the assessment either by the EAP or specialist which are to be included as conditions of authorisation (o) A description of any assumptions, uncertainties and gaps in knowledge which relate to the assessment and mitigation measures proposed; (p) A reasoned opinion as to whether the proposed activity should or should not be authorised, and if the opinion is that it should be authorised, any conditions that should be made in respect of that authorisation; (q) Where the proposed activity does not include operational aspects, the period for which the environmental authorisation is required and the date on which the activity will be concluded and the post construction monitoring requirements finalised; (r) An undertaking under oath or affirmation by the EAP in relation to: (i) The correctness of the information provided in the reports; (ii) The inclusion of comments and inputs from stakeholders and I&APs; (iii) The inclusion of inputs and recommendations from the specialist reports where relevant; and (iv) Any information provided by the EAP to interested and affected parties and any responses by the EAP to comments or inputs made by interested or affected parties; (s) Where applicable, details of any financial provisions for the rehabilitation, closure, and ongoing post decommissioning management of negative environmental impacts; (t) An indication of any deviation from the approved seeping report, including the plan of study, including- (i) Any deviation from the methodology used in determining the significance of potential environmental impacts and risks; and (ii) A motivation for the deviation; SECTION ADDRESSED PART A: 3 (h) PART A: 3 (i) PART A: 3 (j) PART A: 3 (k) PART A: 3 (l) PART A: 3 (m) PART A: 3 (n) PART A: 3 (o) PART A: 3 (p) PART A: 3 (q) PART A: 3 (r) PART A: 3 (s) PART A: 3 (t)

5 ASSESSMENT REPORT REGULATION REQUIREMENT (u) Any specific information that may be required by the competent authority; and (v) Any other matters required in terms of section 24(4)(a) and (b) of the Act. SECTION ADDRESSED PART A: 3 (u) PART A: 3 (v) TABLE 2: Structure of the EMP. EMP REGULATION REQUIREMENT (a) Details of (i) The EAP who prepared the EMPr; and (ii) The expertise of the EAP to prepare an EMPr, including a curriculum vitae (b) A detailed description of the aspects of the activity that are covered by the EMPr as identified by the project description; (c) A map at an appropriate scale which superimposes the proposed activity, its associated structures, and infrastructure on the environmental sensitivities of the preferred site, indicating any areas that any areas that should be avoided, including buffers; (d) A description of the impact management objectives, including management statements, identifying the impacts and risks that need to be avoided, managed and mitigated as identified through the environmental impact assessment process for all phases of the development including- (i) Planning and design; (ii) Pre-construction activities; (iii) Construction activities; (iv) Rehabilitation of the environment after construction and where applicable post closure; and v) Where relevant, operation activities; (e) A description and identification of impact management outcomes required for the aspects contemplated in paragraph (d); (f) A description of proposed impact management actions, identifying the manner in which the impact management objectives and outcomes contemplated in paragraphs (d) and (e) will be achieved, and must, where applicable, include actions to- (i) Avoid, modify, remedy, control or stop any action, activity or process which causes pollution or environmental degradation; (ii) Comply with any prescribed environmental management standards or practices; (iii) Comply with any applicable provisions of the Act regarding closure, where applicable; and (iv) Comply with any provisions of the Act regarding financial provisions for rehabilitation, where applicable; (g) The method of monitoring the implementation of the impact management actions contemplated in paragraph h) The frequency of monitoring the implementation of the impact management actions contemplated in paragraph (i) An indication of the persons who will be responsible for the implementation of the impact management actions; (j) The time periods within which the impact management actions contemplated in paragraph (k) The mechanism for monitoring compliance with the impact management actions contemplated in paragraph (l) A program for reporting on compliance, taking into account the requirements as prescribed by the Regulations; (m) An environmental awareness plan describing the manner in which- (i) The applicant intends to inform his or her employees of any environmental risk which may result from their work; and (ii) Risks must be dealt with in order to avoid pollution or the degradation of the environment; and (n) Any specific information that may be required by the competent authority. SECTION ADDRESSED PART B: 1 (a) PART B: 1 (b) PART B: 1 (c) PART B: 1 (d) PART B: 1 (e) PART B: 1 (f) PART B: 1 (g) PART B: 1 (h) PART B: 1 (i) PART B: 1 (j) PART B: 1 (k) PART B: 1 (l) PART B: 1 (m) PART B: 1 (n)

6 TABLE OF CONTENTS 1. IMPORTANT NOTICE OBJECTIVE OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT PROCESS... 3 PART A: SCOPE OF ASSSSMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT REPORT CONTACT PERSON AND CORRESPONDENCE ADDRESS... 4 A) DETAILS OF... 4 B) DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPERTY... 5 C) LOCALITY MAP... 6 D) DESCRIPTION OF THE SCOPE OF THE PROPOSED OVERALL ACTIVITY... 8 E) POLICY AND LEGISLATIVE CONTEXT F) NEED AND DESIRABILITY OF THE PROPOSED ACTIVITIES G) MOTIVATION FOR THE PREFERRED DEVELOPMENT FOOTPRINT WITHIN THE APPROVED SITE INCLUDING A FULL DESCRIPTION OF THE PROCESS FOLLOWED TO REACH THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT FOOTPRINT WITHIN THE APPROVED SITE MITIGATION H) FULL DESCRIPTION OF THE PROCESS UNDERTAKEN TO IDENTIFY, ASSESS AND RANK THE IMPACTS AND RISKS THE ACTIVITY WILL IMPOSE ON THE PREFERRED SITE (IN RESPECT OF THE FINAL SITE LAYOUT PLAN) THROUGH THE LIFE OF THE ACTIVITY I) ASSESSMENT OF EACH IDENTIFIED POTENTIALLY SIGNIFICANT IMPACT AND RISK J) SUMMARY OF SPECIALIST REPORTS K) ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT L) PROPOSED IMPACT MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES AND THE IMPACT MANAGEMENT OUTCOMES FOR INCLUSION IN THE EMPR M) FINAL PROPOSED ALTERNATIVES N) ASPECTS FOR INCLUSION AS CONDITIONS OF AUTHORISATION O) DESCRIPTION OF ANY ASSUMPTIONS, UNCERTAINTIES AND GAPS IN KNOWLEDGE P) REASONED OPINION AS TO WHETHER THE PROPOSED ACTIVITY SHOULD OR SHOULD NOT BE AUTHORISED Q) PERIOD FOR WHICH THE ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORISATION IS REQUIRED R) UNDERTAKING S) FINANCIAL PROVISION T) DEVIATIONS FROM THE APPROVED SCOPING REPORT AND PLAN OF STUDY U) OTHER INFORMATION REQUIRED BY THE COMPETENT AUTHORITY V) OTHER MATTERS REQUIRED IN TERMS OF SECTIONS 24(4)(A) AND (B) OF THE ACT PART B: ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME REPORT DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME A) DETAILS OF THE EAP B) DESCRIPTION OF THE ASPECTS OF THE ACTIVITY C) COMPOSITE MAP D) DESCRIPTION OF IMPACT MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES INCLUDING MANAGEMENT STATEMENTS E) IMPACT MANAGEMENT OUTCOMES F) IMPACT MANAGEMENT ACTIONS UNDERTAKING A) THE CORRECTNESS OF THE INFORMATION PROVIDED IN THE REPORTS B) THE INCLUSION OF COMMENTS AND INPUTS FROM STAKEHOLDERS AND IAPS C) THE INCLUSION OF INPUTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THE SPECIALIST REPORTS WHERE RELEVANT

7 D) THE ACCEPTABILITY OF THE PROJECT IN RELATION TO THE FINDING OF THE ASSESSMENT AND LEVEL OF MITIGATION PROPOSED LIST OF FIGURES FIGURE 1: Locality Map FIGURE 2: Location of Crushing Plant within approved Mining Right area FIGURE 3: Stockpile locality alternatives FIGURE 4: Environmental Sensitivity Map FIGURE 5: Final layout of the proposed staged mobile crushing plant within the existing footprint of the Amasundu Gravell CC Quarry Pit LIST OF TABLES TABLE 1: Structure of Environmental Impact Report TABLE 2: Structure of the EMP TABLE 3: Property description TABLE 4: Listed and specified activities TABLE 5: Applicable legislation TABLE 6: Plant options TABLE 7: Public consultation TABLE 8: Summary of issues raised by IAPs TABLE 9: High level potential impacts identified TABLE 10: Interpretation of the significance scoring of a negative impact / effect TABLE 11: Rating scale for the assessment of the spatial extent of a predicted effect / impact TABLE 12: Rating scale for the assessment of the severity / magnitude of a predicted effect / impact TABLE 13: Rating scale for the assessment of the temporal scale of a predicted effect / impact TABLE 14: Rating scale for the assessment of loss of resources due to a predicted effect / impact.. 40 TABLE 15: Rating scale for the assessment of reversibility of a predicted effect / impact TABLE 16: Rating scale for the assessment of the probability of a predicted effect / impact TABLE 17: Potential residual risk after mitigation TABLE 18: Summary of specialist reports TABLE 19: Impacts to be mitigated and their respective phases TABLE 20: Impacts to be mitigated and their respective phases TABLE 21: Impacts to be mitigated and their respective phases TABLE 22: Mechanisms for monitoring compliance with and performance assessment against the environmental management programme and reporting LIST OF PLATES PLATE 1: View of the current mining operations PLATE 2: View of typical two stage mobile crushing plant PLATE 3: View of a typical Mobile Crushing Plant that is proposed for the quarry PLATE 4: View of a typical Static Crushing Plant that is proposed for the quarry PLATE 5: View of the notice board placed on the mining area fence line PLATE 6: View of the notice board placed along the R PLATE 7: View of the topography around the site, looking in a northerly direction towards the site PLATE 8: View of the topography to the north of the site PLATE 9: View of the topography to the south of the quarry

8 LIST OF APPENDICES APPENDIX 1: EAP Qualifications APPENDIX 2: Maps APPENDIX 3: Plates APPENDIX 4: Site Plan APPENDIX 5: PPP APPENDIX 6: Impact Assessment Table APPENDIX 7: Specialist Reports... 92

9 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT REPORT And ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME REPORT SUBMITTED FOR ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORIZATIONS IN TERMS OF THE NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT ACT, 1998 AND THE NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT WASTE ACT, 2008 IN RESPECT OF LISTED ACTIVITIES THAT HAVE BEEN TRIGGERED BY APPLICATIONS IN TERMS OF THE MINERAL AND PETROLEUM RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT ACT, 2002 (MPRDA) (AS AMENDED). NAME OF APPLICANT: Amasundu Gravel CC TEL NO: (035) FAX NO: (035) POSTAL ADDRESS: PO Box 82, umtunzini, 4340 FILE REFERENCE NUMBER SAMRAD: KZN30/5/1/2/2/200MR 1 P a g e

10 1. IMPORTANT NOTICE In terms of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (Act 28 of 2002 as amended), the Minister must grant a prospecting or mining right if among others the mining will not result in unacceptable pollution, ecological degradation or damage to the environment. Unless an Environmental Authorisation can be granted following the evaluation of an Environmental Impact Assessment and an Environmental Management Programme report in terms of the National Environmental Management Act (Act 107 of 1998) (NEMA), it cannot be concluded that the said activities will not result in unacceptable pollution, ecological degradation or damage to the environment. In terms of section 16(3)(b) of the EIA Regulations, 2014, any report submitted as part of an application must be prepared in a format that may be determined by the Competent Authority and in terms of section 17 (1) (c) the competent Authority must check whether the application has taken into account any minimum requirements applicable or instructions or guidance provided by the competent authority to the submission of applications. It is therefore an instruction that the prescribed reports required in respect of applications for an environmental authorisation for listed activities triggered by an application for a right or a permit are submitted in the exact format of, and provide all the information required in terms of, this template. Furthermore, please be advised that failure to submit the information required in the format provided in this template will be regarded as a failure to meet the requirements of the Regulation and will lead to the Environmental Authorisation being refused. It is furthermore an instruction that the Environmental Assessment Practitioner must process and interpret his/her research and analysis and use the findings thereof to compile the information required herein. (Unprocessed supporting information may be attached as appendices). The EAP must ensure that the information required is placed correctly in the relevant sections of the Report, in the order, and under the provided headings as set out below, and ensure that the report is not cluttered with uninterpreted information and that it unambiguously represents the interpretation of the applicant. 2 P a g e

11 2. OBJECTIVE OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT PROCESS The objective of the environmental impact assessment process is to, through a consultative process (a) determine the policy and legislative context within which the activity is located and document how the proposed activity complies with and responds to the policy and legislative context; (b) describe the need and desirability of the proposed activity, including the need and desirability of the activity in the context of the preferred location; (c) identify the location of the development footprint within the preferred site based on an impact and risk assessment process inclusive of cumulative impacts and a ranking process of all the identified development footprint alternatives focusing on the geographical, physical, biological, social, economic, heritage and cultural aspects of the environment; (d) determine the - (i) nature, significance, consequence, extent, duration and probability of the impacts occurring to inform identified preferred alternatives; and (ii) degree to which these impacts (aa) can be reversed; (bb) may cause irreplaceable loss of resources, and (cc) can be avoided, managed or mitigated; (e) identify the most ideal location for the activity within the preferred site based on the lowest level of environmental sensitivity identified during the assessment; (f) identify, assess, and rank the impacts the activity will impose on the preferred location through the life of the activity; (g) identify suitable measures to manage, avoid or mitigate identified impacts; and (h) identify residual risks that need to be managed and monitored. 3 P a g e

12 PART A: SCOPE OF ASSSSMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT REPORT 3. CONTACT PERSON AND CORRESPONDENCE ADDRESS a) Details of i) Details of the EAP Name of Practitioners: Mr Magnus van Rooyen Tel No.: (033) Fax No.: (033) addresses: ii) Expertise of the EAP. (1) The qualifications of the EAP (Qualifications attached as Appendix 1) Details of Mr Magnus van Rooyen: M. Phil (Environmental Management) Pr. Sci. Nat - Registration number: /11 IAIAsa - Membership number: 1839 Experience: 13 years (2) Summary of the EAP s past experience. (In carrying out the Environmental Impact Assessment Procedure) Mr Magnus van Rooyen Mr van Rooyen is currently an Executive Associate and the Regional Head of the Environmental Division of JG Afrika (Pty) Ltd. He is located in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. In addition to holding a Masters degree in Environmental Management, Mr van Rooyen also holds a BSc degree in Botany and Zoology, an Honours Degree in Botany and a Post Graduate Certificate in Education. He has 13 years experience in projects involving Environmental Impact Assessments in various developmental sectors (Mining and Agricultural Sector, National Roads, Pipelines, Dams, and Residential Developments), conducting of Specialist Biodiversity Assessments associated with Environmental Impact Assessments and Project Feasibility Studies. He has experience in the compilation of Resettlement Policy Framework Plans associated with infrastructure development projects. Mr van Rooyen has experience in working on various private and public sectors, as well as rural and urban environments in various countries. Mr van Rooyen s expertise lies within the mining sector where he has gained extensive exposure to all the aspects of mining projects from the pre-feasibility, prospecting, environmental impact assessment and implementation and monitoring stages. In addition, he has conducted Due Diligence Assessments, as well as Environmental Compliance Monitoring and Management of a variety of mining sites. 4 P a g e

13 b) Description of the property Property details are provided in Table 3. TABLE 3: Property description. Farm Name Obanjeni No Application area (Ha) Magisterial district Distance and direction from nearest town 5.28ha umlalazi Local Municipality Mtunzini The site is accessed from the National Road 2 (N2) by turning left at Mtunzini Toll Plaza, turning west (left) at the intersection and travelling approximately 1km to the T-junction with the R102 Empangeni Gingindlovu Road. Turning south-west (left) at this junction one will travel along the R102 towards Gingindlovu for approximately 7km then one would reach the turn off to the south (left) to gain access to the farm Obanjeni. The site is situated on the northern portion of the farm, north of the R102. Farm Name Portion 4 of the Farm Obanjeni No Application area (Ha) Magisterial district Distance and direction from nearest town 21-digit Surveyor General Code for each farm portion 5.28ha uthungulu District Municipality The town of Mtunzini is located approximately 8km to the east of the site. N0GU N0GU P a g e

14 c) Locality map (show nearest town, scale not smaller than 1:250000). The site is accessed from the National Road 2 (N2) by turning left at the Mtunzini Toll Plaza and travelling approximately 1km to the intersection with the R102. Turn left (west) towards Gingindlovu and travel for approximately 7km to reach the turnoff to the left (south) to gain access to the Farm Obajeni No The site is located within the boundary of this property. Please refer to Figure 1 and Appendix 2: Locality Map. 6 P a g e

15 Site R102 FIGURE 1: Locality Map. 7 P a g e

16 d) Description of the scope of the proposed overall activity Provide a plan drawn to a scale acceptable to the competent authority but not less than 1: that shows the location, and area (hectares) of all the aforesaid main and listed activities, and infrastructure to be placed on site. i) Listed and specified activities Provide a plan drawn to a scale acceptable to the competent authority but not less than 1: that shows the location, and area (hectares) of all the aforesaid main and listed activities, and infrastructure to be placed on site. TABLE 4: Listed and specified activities. NAME OF ACTIVITY (All activities including activities not listed) (E.g. Excavations, blasting, stockpiles, discard dumps or dams, Loading, hauling and transport, Water supply dams and boreholes, accommodation, offices, ablution, stores, workshops, processing plant, storm water control, berms, roads, pipelines, power lines, conveyors, etc...etc...etc.) Any activity including the operation of the activity associated with the primary processing of a mineral, including: Crushing. Aerial extent of the Activity Ha or m 2 Included in the aerial extent of the current approved mining right area and will have an extent of approximately 100m 2. The other activities associated with the quarry operations include: Periodic blasting of the hard rock in the quarry; Excavation of blasted rock; Loading of transport trucks with an excavator; and Transporting of the materials off site. LISTED ACTIVITY Mark with an X where applicable or affected. X APPLICABLE LISTING NOTICE (GNR 983, GNR 984 or GNR 985) / NOT LISTED GNR 984: Activity 21 These activities are currently authorised under the approved Environmental Management Programme Report (EMPr) that is in place for the current Mining Right Authorisation (DMR Protocol No. 1354/2009). As per Figure 2, the approved Mining Right area of 5.28ha is where the crushing activity is to occur, i.e. within the boundaries of the existing quarry. The mobile crushing plant will be located within the Mining Right boundary, as indicated in Figure 2. 8 P a g e

17 Location of crushing plant within boundaries of the existing gravel quarry as indicated by yellow line Approved Mining Right area as indicated by pink outline (5.28ha) R102 FIGURE 2: Location of Crushing Plant within approved Mining Right area. ii) Description of the activities to be undertaken (Describe Methodology or technology to be employed, including the type of commodity to be mined and for a linear activity, a description of the route of the activity). JG Afrika (Pty) Ltd has been appointed by Amasundu Quarry CC to undertake the environmental services required for the proposed development of a staged mobile crushing plant at the Amasundu Quarry, near Mtunzini, KwaZulu-Natal. The crushing plant is to be established within the current quarry pit footprint operated under an existing Mining Right (DMR Protocol No. 1354/2009) on Portion 4 of the Farm Obanjeni No Establishment Phase The establishment phase will include for the preparation of the area within the quarry pit, in which the crushing plant will be located. The plant will be moved from this location if and when needed as the mining of the quarry progresses. No topsoil is present within the quarry pit as it is currently being actively mined. Plate 1 provides an overview of the current activities being undertaken on site. The crushing plant is proposed to be located within this area. 9 P a g e

18 PLATE 1: View of the current mining operations. The establishment phase will therefore be limited to the preparation of the levelling of the area that the crushing plant will be located on and the preparation of the footings of the plant. This will be done with a small Bulldozer, a Tractor Loaded Backhoe (TLB) and a larger Excavator. A certain amount of compaction might be required that will be provided by a small Bomag Roller. Operational Phase The operational phase of the crushing plant will involve blasting of the hard rock in the quarry, the loading of blasted rock into the primary crushing jaw, with the crushed material moving through the various stages of the plant to provide various aggregate sources as the market demands. It is likely, that even though provision is made for a mobile crushing plant in the quarry, the crushing plant will not be moved regularly. The various product produced by the crushing plant will be transported from the plant to the various product stockpiles within the mining area. Plate 2 provides an illustration of a typical two stage mobile crushing plant that is intended in the quarry. PLATE 2: View of typical two stage mobile crushing plant. 10 P a g e

19 It is considered that the forecast annual production of the crushing plant will not exceed an approximate quantity of m 3. Decommissioning Phase The decommissioning of the crushing plant will take place in conjunction with the decommissioning of the quarry at the end of the life of the mine. The plant will be demolished and moved off site. No further provisions directly related to the decommissioning of the plant are necessary as the decommissioning activities of the quarry are already authorised as part of the approved EMPr. 11 P a g e

20 e) Policy and Legislative Context The applicable policy and legislative requirements associated with the design and layout of the facility are provided in Table 5. TABLE 5: Applicable legislation. APPLICABLE LEGISLATION AND GUIDELINES USED TO COMPILE THE REPORT (a description of the policy and legislative context within which the development is proposed including an identification of all legislation, policies, plans, guidelines, spatial tools, municipal development planning frameworks and instruments that are applicable to this activity and are to be considered in the assessment process). The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (Act 108 of 1996). The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa (Act No. 108 of 1996) is the legal source for all law, including environmental law, in South Africa. The Bill of Rights is fundamental to the Constitution of South Africa and the underlying principle behind Section 24 of the Act is that everyone has the right to an environment that is not harmful to their health or well-being. Furthermore, the environment should be protected for present and future generations by preventing pollution, promoting conservation and practising ecologically sustainable development. The National Environmental Management Act (Act No. 107 of 1998) (NEMA): Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Regulations of The NEMA and the EIA Regulations and associated Listed Activities identified under Regulations 982, 983, 984 and 985, are the key national legislation underpinning Environmental Authorisations in South Africa. REFERENCE WHERE APPLIED (i.e. Where in this document has it been explained how the development complies with and responds to the legislation and policy context) The basis on which the assessment is being undertaken. NEMA and the associated EIA Regulations are directly relevant to this authorisation application. Listed Activities as per NEMA Regulations have been identified and are shown in Table 4. HOW DOES THIS DEVELOPMENT COMPLY WITH AND RESPOND TO THE POLICY AND LEGISLATIVE CONTEXT (E.g. In terms of the National Water Act: -Water Use Licence has/has not been applied for). The basis on which the assessment is being undertaken. As per the EIA Regulations (2014), GNR 984, Activity 21 is triggered due to the proposed installation and operation of the staged mobile crushing plant in the existing quarry. 12 P a g e

21 APPLICABLE LEGISLATION AND GUIDELINES USED TO COMPILE THE REPORT (a description of the policy and legislative context within which the development is proposed including an identification of all legislation, policies, plans, guidelines, spatial tools, municipal development planning frameworks and instruments that are applicable to this activity and are to be considered in the assessment process). The Department of Mineral Resources (DMR) is the Competent Authority for mining-related applications in terms of NEMA. The National Water Act (Act No. 36 of 1998) (NWA). The NWA recognises that water is a scarce and unevenly distributed national resource which must be managed encompassing all aspects of water resources. In terms of Chapter 4 of the NWA, activities and processes associated with the proposed development are required to be licensed by the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS). REFERENCE WHERE APPLIED (i.e. Where in this document has it been explained how the development complies with and responds to the legislation and policy context) This report was compiled as per the NEMA Regulation 982 (see Table 1). Based on the scope of the works associated with the establishment of the crushing plant in the quarry, it is understood that an Application for a Water Use Licence is not necessary. HOW DOES THIS DEVELOPMENT COMPLY WITH AND RESPOND TO THE POLICY AND LEGISLATIVE CONTEXT (E.g. In terms of the National Water Act: -Water Use Licence has/has not been applied for). An Application for Environmental Authorisation has been submitted to the Department of Mineral Resources in this regard. As an Application for a Water Use Licence is not necessary, a Water Use Licence has not been applied for. The National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (Act No.10 of 2004) (NEM:BA). The National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (Act No. 10 of 2004) (NEMBA) provides for the management and conservation of South Africa s biodiversity within the framework of NEMA, as well as the protection of species and ecosystems that warrant national protection and the sustainable use of indigenous biological resources. The National Environmental Management: Air Quality Act (Act No. 39 of 2004) (NEM: AQA). The National Environmental Management Air Quality Act (NEM: AQA) came into effect in April 2010 and is applied in accordance with the principles stipulated in NEMA. The Act outlines norms and standards with No application will be required in accordance with the legislation as the crushing plant will be located within the quarry pit that has already been disturbed. It is acknowledged that the crushing operations will generate dust, but the levels of dust generated will not require any application in accordance with this regulation. Given the disturbance within the existing operational quarry, no application under the NEM: BA has been made. The crushing activities will generate dust, but the amount generated will not exceed any thresholds as noted in the NEM: AQA. 13 P a g e

22 APPLICABLE LEGISLATION AND GUIDELINES USED TO COMPILE THE REPORT (a description of the policy and legislative context within which the development is proposed including an identification of all legislation, policies, plans, guidelines, spatial tools, municipal development planning frameworks and instruments that are applicable to this activity and are to be considered in the assessment process). regards to air quality management planning, monitoring, compliance and management measures in order to protect and enhance the quality of air and reduce risks to human health. NEM: AQA also promotes sustainable development. REFERENCE WHERE APPLIED (i.e. Where in this document has it been explained how the development complies with and responds to the legislation and policy context) However, an Air Quality Specialist has been appointed to determine the impact of the dust on receiving receptors located in the area. Refer to PART A: 3 (j), Table 18. HOW DOES THIS DEVELOPMENT COMPLY WITH AND RESPOND TO THE POLICY AND LEGISLATIVE CONTEXT (E.g. In terms of the National Water Act: -Water Use Licence has/has not been applied for). The National Heritage Resources Act (NHRA)(Act No. 25 of 1999). The National Heritage Resources Act aims to promote good management of cultural heritage resources and encourages the nurturing and conservation of cultural legacy so that it may be bestowed to future generations. The Act requires all developers (including mines) to undertake cultural heritage studies for any development exceeding 0.5 ha. It also provides guidelines for impact assessment studies to be undertaken where cultural resources may be disturbed by development activities. The South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA) will need to approve the heritage assessment undertaken as part of the impact assessment process. Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (MPRDA) (Act 28 of 2002). The objectives of the Act are as follows: The crushing plant will be located within the existing operational quarry pit. The opening and operation of the pit has been authorised under the approved EMPr, which included a consideration of the possible heritage resources on the property. No further application in accordance with the legislation will therefore be lodged. AMAFA has, however, been contacted in order to advise if this is acceptable no response has been received to date. See PART A: 3 (g) (iii) Table 8. As the facility is located on an area that is currently under an existing Mining Right, all matters relating to any amendment or change to the facilities on this property must be authorised in accordance with the requirements of this Act. Based on the existing quarry activities on site, no application to AMAFA, as per the NHRA has been made in terms of this application. An Application for Environmental Authorisation has been submitted to the Department of Mineral Resources in this regard. 14 P a g e

23 APPLICABLE LEGISLATION AND GUIDELINES USED TO COMPILE THE REPORT (a description of the policy and legislative context within which the development is proposed including an identification of all legislation, policies, plans, guidelines, spatial tools, municipal development planning frameworks and instruments that are applicable to this activity and are to be considered in the assessment process). (a) recognise the internationally accepted right of the State to exercise sovereignty over all the mineral and petroleum resources within the Republic; (b) give effect to the principle of the State's custodianship of the nation's mineral and petroleum resources; (c) promote equitable access to the nation's mineral and petroleum resources to all the people of South Africa; (d) substantially and meaningfully expand opportunities for historically disadvantaged persons, including women, to enter the mineral and petroleum industries and to benefit from the exploitation of the nation's mineral and petroleum resources; (e) promote economic growth and mineral and petroleum resources development in the Republic; (f) promote employment and advance the social and economic welfare of all South Africans; (g) provide for security of tenure in respect of prospecting, exploration, mining and production operations; (h) give effect to Section 24 of the Constitution by ensuring that the nation's mineral and petroleum resources are developed in an orderly and ecologically sustainable manner while promoting justifiable social and economic development; and (i) ensure that holders of Mining and Production Rights contribute towards the socio-economic development of the areas in which they are operating. REFERENCE WHERE APPLIED (i.e. Where in this document has it been explained how the development complies with and responds to the legislation and policy context) HOW DOES THIS DEVELOPMENT COMPLY WITH AND RESPOND TO THE POLICY AND LEGISLATIVE CONTEXT (E.g. In terms of the National Water Act: -Water Use Licence has/has not been applied for). 15 P a g e

24 APPLICABLE LEGISLATION AND GUIDELINES USED TO COMPILE THE REPORT (a description of the policy and legislative context within which the development is proposed including an identification of all legislation, policies, plans, guidelines, spatial tools, municipal development planning frameworks and instruments that are applicable to this activity and are to be considered in the assessment process). Minerals and Petroleum Resources Development Act (Act 28 of 2002), Government Notice R577 of April For the separation of clean and dirty water run-off in terms of surface water drainage. Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act, 1983 (Act 43 of 1983). The Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act (CARA) is an Act of the National Department of Agriculture and makes provision for the conservation of the natural agricultural resources of South Africa through: Maintaining the production potential of land; Combating and prevention of erosion; Preventing the weakening or destruction of water sources; Protecting the vegetation; and Combating weeds and invader plants. National Forests Act (Act 84 of 1998). Notice No. 734 provides a list of the protected tree species under the National Forests Act in terms of Section 15(3), that no person may cut, disturb, damage or destroy any protected tree or possess, collect, remove, transport, export, purchase, sell, donate or in any other manner acquire or dispose of any protected tree or any forest product derived from a protected tree, except under a licence or exemption granted by the Minister to an applicant and subject to such period and conditions as may be stipulated. REFERENCE WHERE APPLIED (i.e. Where in this document has it been explained how the development complies with and responds to the legislation and policy context) HOW DOES THIS DEVELOPMENT COMPLY WITH AND RESPOND TO THE POLICY AND LEGISLATIVE CONTEXT (E.g. In terms of the National Water Act: -Water Use Licence has/has not been applied for). For the appropriate management of stormwater. As the existing quarry is operating Necessary for the protection of agricultural resources and for the control and removal of alien invasive plants. The alien vegetation management plan is currently incorporated into the current EMPr. For the protection of listed tree species. under an existing authorised EMPr and the proposed crushing plant will not impact upon stormwater separation, allowance for such has not been made. Alien vegetation control is currently incorporated into the current EMPr. As such, allowance for such has not been made under this application. As no trees exist on the site given that the site is an existing operational quarry, no application will be made for the removal of protected trees. 16 P a g e

25 APPLICABLE LEGISLATION AND GUIDELINES USED TO COMPILE THE REPORT (a description of the policy and legislative context within which the development is proposed including an identification of all legislation, policies, plans, guidelines, spatial tools, municipal development planning frameworks and instruments that are applicable to this activity and are to be considered in the assessment process). Guideline 4: Public Participation in support of the EIA Regulations (2005). REFERENCE WHERE APPLIED (i.e. Where in this document has it been explained how the development complies with and responds to the legislation and policy context) For implementation of the Public Participation Process. See PART A: 3 (g) (ii). HOW DOES THIS DEVELOPMENT COMPLY WITH AND RESPOND TO THE POLICY AND LEGISLATIVE CONTEXT (E.g. In terms of the National Water Act: -Water Use Licence has/has not been applied for). This Guideline has been utilised for the Public Participation undertaken for this application. 17 P a g e

26 f) Need and desirability of the proposed activities. (Motivate the need and desirability of the proposed development including the need and desirability of the activity in the context of the preferred location). The need and desirability for the establishment of the mobile crushing plant in the quarry pit is linked to several reasons: The quarry operations included in the authorised Mining Right makes provision for the excavation of weathered dolerite gravel from the mining area. The mining of this gravel has resulted in the exposure of hard rock dolerite that requires blasting to excavate. The blasted rock further requires additional processing to enable the hard rock material to be usable. The underlying hard rock has enabled the quarry to produce additional product sources. The blast rock requires crushing to produce these additional aggregate sizes. The production of additional aggregate products will enable the quarry operations to be sustained and to expand. Expansion will result in five new employment opportunities for the local community which will assist in skills creation and knowledge transfer. Of the five new employment opportunities created, two will be offered to suitable woman candidates. In terms of the aggregate products produced as a result of the mining and crushing activities, the greater socioeconomy of the surrounding area will benefit through the provision of raw material (i.e. aggregate products) to the construction industry, which is currently experiencing positive growth and is improving employment prospects. 18 P a g e

27 g) Motivation for the preferred development footprint within the approved site including a full description of the process followed to reach the proposed development footprint within the approved site. NB!! This section is about the determination of the specific site layout and the location of infrastructure and activities on site, having taken into consideration the issues raised by interested and affected parties, and the consideration of alternatives to the initially proposed site layout. i) Details of the development footprint alternatives considered. With reference to the site plan provided as Appendix 4 and the location of the individual activities on site, provide details of the alternatives considered with respect to: (a) the property on which or location where it is proposed to undertake the activity; (b) the type of activity to be undertaken; (c) the design or layout of the activity; (d) the technology to be used in the activity; (e) the operational aspects of the activity; and (f) the option of not implementing the activity. a) The property on which or location where it is proposed to undertake the activity. The crushing plant will be located within the quarry pit that is being operated in accordance with an existing Mining Right. No location alternative is therefore considered as the crushing plant is directly linked to the current quarry operations. b) The type of activity to be undertaken. The activity that is proposed is for the establishment of a crushing plant in an existing quarry operation. The crushing of hard rock is the only activity that is considered for the crushing of aggregates. c) The design or layout of the activity. No design or layout alternative have been considered for the crushing plant. The reason for this is that it is the intention to have the crushing plant located as close as possible to the quarry face to ensure safe operation and to limit handling of hard rock material. Furthermore, the plant will be located in the current quarry pit operated under an existing Mining Right. Consideration has, however, been given to the location of the crushed aggregate stockpiles. Consideration was given to on-site and off-site stockpiling. The image below makes provision for the location of the two options: 19 P a g e

28 On-site stockpiles Off-site stockpiles FIGURE 3: Stockpile locality alternatives. A decision was made to make provision for on-site stockpiles as this will enable easier control of the loading of the materials for transport off site. d) The technology to be used in the activity. The activity that is being planned relates to the crushing of hard rock into various aggregate sizes. To this end, multi-staged crushers have been considered. Two types of multi-staged crushers were considered, these made provision for a Mobile Crushing Plant and a Static Crushing Plant. Table 6 provides a comparative assessment of the different equipment considered. TABLE 6: Plant options. Criteria Mobile Crushing Plant Static Crushing Plant Versatility This plant type allows for mobility to By nature, this plant type cannot be move the plant if and when needed. moved easily if and when the quarry Due to its mobility this plant type has a operations require it. The plant also smaller operating area. requires a large operating area. Production Capacity The production capacity is lower than The production capacity is higher than that that of a Static Plant. of a Mobile Plant. Cost Mobile Plants have a lower initial Static Plants have higher initial establishment and operating costs than establishment and operating costs than Static Plants. Mobile Plants. 20 P a g e

29 Energy Use Mobile Plants have less energy use than Static Plants. Static Plants have higher energy use than Mobile Plants. PLATE 3: View of a typical Mobile Crushing Plant that is proposed for the quarry. 21 P a g e

30 PLATE 4: View of a typical Static Crushing Plant that is proposed for the quarry. Based on the above assessment of the two technology alternatives, it has been decided that the mobile crushing plant is the most applicable to the requirements of the quarry operations. e) The operational aspects of the activity. The only operational aspect alternative that was considered was the location of the product stockpiles, either within the mining area or off-site. The option of locating the product stockpiles within the mining area is preferred from a management and operations point of view. f) The option of not implementing the activity. If the option of not establishing a crushing plant on the quarry site is implemented, the life of mine will be significantly reduced which will impact on the employment opportunities associated with the mining of aggregate. Similarly, the hard rock material that is located below the weathered gravel will not be utilised as a commercial product. 22 P a g e

31 ii) Details of the Public Participation Process Followed Describe the process undertaken to consult interested and affected parties including public meetings and one on one consultation. NB the affected parties must be specifically consulted regardless of whether or not they attended public meetings. (Information to be provided to affected parties must include sufficient detail of the intended operation to enable them to assess what impact the activities will have on them or on the use of their land). The public were notified of the proposed development in alignment with Chapter 6 of the EIA Regulations (2014). The EIA Regulations (2014) allow for an integrated and comprehensive Public Participation Process to be adopted, which provides Interested and Affected Parties (IAPs) with accessible information, presented in an objective manner. Based on this, and during the various phases of the EIA Process, this enables IAPs to: Raise comments and make recommendations to be considered during the impact assessment phase; Provide comment on project alternatives and the proposed process of assessment; Verify that issues raised were recorded and understood; Contribute local knowledge to the process; and Comment on the findings of the Specialist Studies and the EIA. Throughout the process a register of IAPs was created and maintained. This provided the platform from which correspondence occurred and was recorded. The public participation activities undertaken to-date are noted in Table P a g e

32 TABLE 7: Public consultation. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PHASE: PRE-ANNOUNCEMENT CONSULTATION Requirements as per EIA Regulation s, Chapter 6, Regulation 41(2): Public Participation Activity Undertaken (a) Fixing a notice board in a place conspicuous to and accessible by the public One notice board was fixed to the fence of the mining area and one was fixed at the boundary or the fence of: along the R102 tar road that gives access to the site. Photographs of these notice (i) the site where the activity to which the application or proposed application boards are provided below: relates is or is to be undertaken; and (ii) any alternative site. PLATE 5: View of the notice board placed on the mining area fence line. 24 P a g e

33 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PHASE: PRE-ANNOUNCEMENT CONSULTATION Requirements as per EIA Regulation s, Chapter 6, Regulation 41(2): Public Participation Activity Undertaken b) Giving written notice to: (i) the occupiers of the site and, if the proponent or applicant is not the owner or person in control of the site on which the activity is to be undertaken, the owner or person in control of the site where the activity is or is to be undertaken or to any alternative site where the activity is to be undertaken; (ii) owners, persons in control of, and occupiers of land adjacent to the site where the activity is or is to be undertaken or to any alternative site where the activity is to be undertaken; PLATE 6: View of the notice board placed along the R102. A copy of the notice board and its content is attached in Appendix 5. Written notices were delivered to each of the immediate landowners to the larger Amasundu Farm. These were: Susan Jane Ambrose from Obanjeni Stores; Mr Z. Thembe from the Tribal Authority to the north of the site; and Mr Neil Goodman from the farm to the west of the site. Signed copies of these notices are attached in Appendix 5. Written notices have been sent via to various pre-identified stakeholders, these are: 25 P a g e

34 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PHASE: PRE-ANNOUNCEMENT CONSULTATION Requirements as per EIA Regulation s, Chapter 6, Regulation 41(2): Public Participation Activity Undertaken (iii) the municipal councillor of the ward in which the site or alternative site is KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport Ms J Reddy; situated and any organisation of ratepayers that represent the community in Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Mr A. Blackmore; the area; Department of Water and Sanitation Mr S. Govender; (iv) the municipality which has jurisdiction in the area; umlalazi Local Municipality Mr Phiri; (v) any organ of state having jurisdiction in respect of any aspect of the uthungulu District Municipality Mr Dlamini; activity; and Ward 20 Councillor Mr M.G. Zondi; and (vi) any other party as required by the Competent Authority. Amafa Heritage Ms B. Pawandiwa. (c) Placing an advertisement in one local newspaper and in one Provincial Newspaper. Copies of these notices and the delivery notifications are attached in Appendix 5. A newspaper advertisement was placed in the Zululand Observer on 20 May A copy of this advertisement is attached in Appendix P a g e

35 iii) Summary of issues raised by IAPs (Complete the table summarising comments and issues raised, and reaction to those responses) All comments obtained from stakeholders during the Announcement and Scoping Phase are captured in Table P a g e

36 TABLE 8: Summary of issues raised by IAPs. IAPs: List the names of persons consulted in this column, and mark with an X where those who must be consulted were in fact consulted. AFFECTED PARTIES Landowner/s: Date comments received Issues raised EAPs response to issues as mandated by the Applicant The landowner is the Applicant. N/A N/A N/A N/A Lawful occupier/s of the land: The lawful occupier of the land is the Applicant. N/A N/A N/A N/A Landowners or lawful occupiers on adjacent properties: X Ms Susan Jane Ambrose from Obanjeni Stores No objection to the development. N/A N/A Mr Z. Thembe from the Tribal Authority to the north of the site. Mr Neil Goodman from the farm to the west of the site No objection to the development. N/A N/A No objection to the development. N/A N/A Municipal councillor: X Mr M.G. Zondi (Ward 20) N/A No comment received to date. N/A N/A Municipality: X umlalazi Local Municipality Mr Phiri N/A No comment received to date. N/A N/A uthungulu District Municipality Mr Dlamini N/A No comment received to date. N/A N/A Organs of state (responsible for infrastructure that may be affected: Roads Department, Eskom, Telkom, DWS etc.) X Department of Transport Ms J Reddy N/A No comment received to date. N/A N/A Department of Water and Sanitation Mr S. Govender 18/07/2016 You are requested to send a hard copy to the A hardcopy and electronic N/A Department so that it can be registered and sent copy has been sent to you to the relevant officials for comments. for comment via registered mail. The tracking number is Section and paragraph reference in this report where the issues and or response were incorporated. 28 P a g e

37 IAPs: List the names of persons consulted in this column, and mark with an X where those who must be consulted were in fact consulted. Date comments received Issues raised EAPs response to issues as mandated by the Applicant as follows: RD ZA. Communities N/A N/A N/A N/A Dept. Land Affairs N/A N/A N/A N/A Traditional Leaders N/A N/A N/A N/A Dept. Environmental Affairs N/A N/A N/A N/A Other Competent Authorities: X Amafa Ms B. Pawandiwa N/A No comment received to date. A query regarding the need for comment was submitted to AMAFA on 28 June To date, no response has been received. Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Mr A. Blackmore 27/07/2016 Thank you for forwarding the Draft Scoping Report dated June 2016, for the abovementioned application to Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife (Ezemvelo) for review and comment. Ezemvelo will not be providing comment on this application, but trust that all significant biodiversity related concerns have been clearly identified and made known in this assessment together with appropriate measures (viz. avoid, mitigate and thereafter ameliorate) to safeguard the ecological integrity of the developable area. Please be advised that the potential impacts upon biodiversity will be evaluated by the Competent Authority who may, upon receipt, refer the application this organisation for evaluation and advice prior to Thank you for your comment on the Draft Scoping Report. Your comments will be incorporated into the Final Scoping Report for submission to the DMR. Section and paragraph reference in this report where the issues and or response were incorporated. N/A N/A 29 P a g e

38 IAPs: List the names of persons consulted in this column, and mark with an X where those who must be consulted were in fact consulted. OTHER AFFECTED PARTIES INTERESTED PARTIES Date comments received Issues raised making a decision. In such case, the environmental principles prescribed in the National Environmental Management Act 107 of 1998, the objectives of the National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act 10 of 2004 and best practice will be applied. Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife wishes you well with your assessment. EAPs response to issues as mandated by the Applicant N/A N/A N/A N/A Section and paragraph reference in this report where the issues and or response were incorporated. 30 P a g e

39 iv) The Environmental attributes associated with the development footprint alternatives. (The environmental attributed described must include socioeconomic, social, heritage, cultural, geographical, physical and biological aspects) (1) Baseline Environment (a) Type of environment affected by the proposed activity (its current geographical, physical, biological, socio- economic, and cultural character). Climate Camp (1997) described the climate in the area as an area that has a mean annual rainfall of 820mm to 1423mm which falls predominantly during the summer months, which extends from around the beginning of November to the middle of March. The summer months can experience periods of dryness, but is usually broken by violent thunderstorms which produce high rainfall figures in a short period of time. The mean annual temperature range is from 22 C maximum in the north to 18.5 C in the south. Summers are hot, while winters are mild. In both these seasons the levels of humidity is high. Topography The topography is gently rolling hills with small drainage lines that run along their bases and feeds into larger streams, which then flow in to the larger rivers that drain the area. The topography has severely been affected by the agricultural practises of sugarcane propagation that has persisted in the area. Plates 7 9 provide an overview of the topography in the area. PLATE 7: View of the topography around the site, looking in a northerly direction towards the site. PLATE 8: View of the topography to the north of the site. 31 P a g e

40 PLATE 9: View of the topography to the south of the quarry. Geology and Geohydrology The general geology of the area is characterised by rocks from the Vryheid Formation which follows conformably on the Pietermaritzburg Formation. Both these Formations form part of the Karoo Sequence and falls in the Ecca Group of that sequence. The Vrydheid Formation consists of a very thick succession of medium-grained, white grey sandstones and grey micaceous shales. This formation is covered by sandy soils that originate from the weathering of these sandstones. Several dolerite intrusions, which daylight in the area, are typical of the area and the locality of the quarry sites. Surface Water and Drainage The area falls within the Mlalazi River catchment area that drains into the Indian Ocean at the town of Mtunzini. There are no water bodies on any of the sites and no drainage lines or streams that originate or flow through the sites. Biodiversity Flora According to the Vegetation Types of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland (2006), the site falls within the KwaZulu-Natal Coastal Belt. This Veldtype has a conservation status of vulnerable since very little of this veldtype is conserved in statutory conservation areas and the high level of disturbances caused by agricultural practises. The quarry site, however, has no resemblance whatsoever to this veldtype due to the heavy disturbance as a result of the propagation of sugarcane. The vegetation at the site comprises of clumps of exotics which include Peanut Butter Bush (Senna didymobotrya), Black Wattle (Acacia mearnsii), Pine Trees (Pinus spp) and Bug Weed (Solanum mauritianum). The entire area to the south, east and west of the site is used for the propagation of sugarcane (Plate 9) while the area to the north is used for communal grazing of cattle and the growing of sugarcane (Plate 7 and 8). 32 P a g e

41 Fauna No sightings or signs (spoor and droppings) of wild mammals in the form of antelope or carnivores where seen during the site visit to the area. It is highly possible that due to the presence of sugarcane that cane rats (Thryonomus swinderianus) occur on the site. The presence of these rodents makes the occurrence of a variety of snakes such as Black Mambas (Dendroaspis polylepis) and other vipers that prey on these rodents possible. No endangered birds are known to occur in the area. Socio-economic Environment The dominant activity in the area is agriculture in the form of sugarcane propagation. The farm on which the quarry site is situated is bordered to the north by the Mkhwanazi Traditional Authority which is an area dominated by rural, subsistence farming and sparse population. No known data is available on the employment in the area. The quarry operations will employ five (5) individuals, of which two (2) will be women, which will be sourced from the local community. The product from the mining activity will feed into the greater socio-economy of the surrounding area in terms of providing raw materials to the construction industry which is currently experiencing positive growth and is improving employment prospects. (b) Description of the current land uses. The crushing plant will be located within an existing quarry site. The land use surrounding the site is dominated by the propagation of sugarcane (see Plates 7 to 9, above). (c) Description of specific environmental features and infrastructure on the site. There are no specific environmental features or infrastructure on the site. The site is located within an existing, operational quarry. As such, there are no specific environmental features on site, nor is any permanent infrastructure located on site. The R102, however, is located some 350m to the south of the existing quarry, providing a transportation medium for quarried material via road. No watercourses occur on site and the site is surrounded by sugarcane fields. (d) Environmental and current land use map. (Show all environmental, and current land use features) Figure 4 illustrates the locality of the site in relation to watercourses, the National Freshwater Ecosystems Protected Areas (NFEPA) database (2011), Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife wetlands database (2014) and the surrounding landuse i.e. agriculture. The Environmental Sensitivity Map is also contained as Appendix P a g e

42 FIGURE 4: Environmental Sensitivity Map. 34 P a g e

43 v) Impacts and risks identified including the nature, significance, consequence, extent, duration and probability of the impacts, including the degree to which these impacts (Provide a list of the potential impacts identified of the activities described in the initial site layout that will be undertaken, as informed by both the typical known impacts of such activities, and as informed by the consultations with affected parties together with the significance, probability, and duration of the impacts. Please indicate the extent to which they can be reversed, the extent to which they may cause irreplaceable loss of resources, and can be avoided, managed or mitigated). Table 9 describes the high level potential impacts associated with the construction, operation and closure of the facility. The impact rating methodology makes provision for the significance, probability and duration of these impacts. The methodology utilised is provided for in the PART A: 3 (g) (vi). These impacts have been rated prior to any mitigation measures being applied. PART A: 3 (g)(v) Table 9 and Appendix 6 provides the impacts with mitigation as prescribed by this template. 35 P a g e

44 TABLE 9: High level potential impacts identified. ACTIVITY POTENTIAL IMPACT SIGNIFICANCE PROBABILITY DURATION CONSTRUCTION RELATED IMPACTS Site clearing and earthworks Loss of biodiversity Not applicable Loss of soil resources Not applicable Increased risk of erosion Not applicable Increase in nuisance dust Low (-) Possible Short term Increase in ambient noise levels Low (-) Possible Short term Deterioration of surface water quality Not applicable Potential impact on heritage resources Not applicable Increase in traffic volumes on existing traffic network Not applicable Waste contamination pollution from construction equipment Not applicable Construction of the crushing plant Loss of biodiversity Not applicable Loss of soil resources Not applicable Increased risk of erosion Not applicable Increase in nuisance dust Low (-) Possible Short term Increase in ambient noise levels Low (-) Possible Short term Deterioration of surface water quality Not applicable Potential impact on heritage resources Not applicable Increase in traffic volumes on existing traffic network Not applicable Waste contamination pollution from construction equipment Not applicable OPERATIONAL RELATED IMPACTS Operation of the crushing plant Health and safety impacts Low (-) Possible Medium term Contaminated stormwater entering receiving environs Low (-) Possible Medium term Loss of biodiversity Not applicable Noise impact associated with blasting Low (-) Possible Short term Air quality impact associated with blasting Low (-) Possible Short term 36 P a g e

45 ACTIVITY POTENTIAL IMPACT SIGNIFICANCE PROBABILITY DURATION Structural impacts associated with blasting Low (-) Possible Medium term Loss of soil resources Not applicable Increased risk of erosion Not applicable Increase in nuisance dust Low (-) Possible Medium term Increase in ambient noise levels Low (-) Possible Medium term Deterioration of surface water quality Not applicable Potential impact on heritage resources Not applicable Increase in traffic volumes on existing traffic network Not applicable Waste contamination pollution from construction equipment Not applicable Employment opportunities (socio-economic) High (+) Definite Long term DECOMMISSIONING AND CLOSURE Decommissioning of the crushing plant Loss of biodiversity Not applicable Loss of soil resources Not applicable Increased risk of erosion Not applicable Increase in nuisance dust Low (-) Possible Short term Increase in ambient noise levels Low (-) Possible Short term Deterioration of surface water quality Not applicable Potential impact on heritage resources Not applicable Increase in traffic volumes on existing traffic network Not applicable Waste contamination pollution from construction equipment Not applicable 37 P a g e

46 vi) Methodology used in determining and ranking the nature, significance, consequences, extent, duration and probability of potential environmental impacts and risks; (Describe how the significance, probability, and duration of the aforesaid identified impacts that were identified through the consultation process was determined in order to decide the extent to which the initial site layout needs revision). The EIA Regulations (2014) prescribe requirements to be adhered to when undertaking Impact Assessments. These are noted in GNR 982, Appendix 2 and 3. In terms of these Regulations, the following will be considered: A description and assessment of the significance of any environmental impact including: a) Cumulative impacts that may occur as a result of the undertaking of the activity during the project life cycle; b) Nature of the impact; c) Extent and duration of the impact; d) The probability of the impact occurring; e) The degree to which the impact can be reversed; f) The degree to which the impact may cause irreplaceable loss of resources; and g) The degree to which the impact can be mitigated. Each impact identified will be attributed a score and the overall significance of an impact / effect will be ascertained by attributing numerical ratings to each identified impact. The numerical scores obtained for each identified impact will be multiplied by the probability of the impact occurring before and after mitigation. High values will suggest that a predicted impact / effect is more significant, whilst low values will suggest that a predicted impact / effect is less significant. The interpretation of the overall significance of impacts to be utilised is provided in Table 10. Key criteria are also provided in the assessment thereof to assist in gainful interpretation (as to be noted in the Scoping and Environmental Impact Reports). TABLE 10: Interpretation of the significance scoring of a negative impact / effect. Scoring value > Significance High - The impact is total / consuming / eliminating - In the case of adverse impacts, there is no possible mitigation that could offset the impact, or mitigation is difficult, expensive, time-consuming or some combination of these. Social, cultural and economic activities of communities are disrupted to such an extent that these come to a halt. Mitigation may not be possible / practical. Consider a potential fatal flaw in the project. High - The impact is profound - In the case of adverse impacts, there are few opportunities for mitigation that could offset the impact, or mitigation has a limited effect on the impact. Social, cultural and economic activities of communities are disrupted to such an extent that their operation is severely impeded. Mitigation may not be possible / practical. Consider a potential fatal flaw in the project. Medium - The impact is considerable / substantial - The impact is of great importance. Failure to mitigate with the objective of reducing the impact to acceptable levels could render the entire project option or entire project proposal unacceptable. Mitigation is therefore essential. 38 P a g e

47 Medium - The impact is material / important to investigate - The impact is of importance 7 20 and is therefore considered to have a substantial impact. Mitigation is required to reduce the negative impacts and such impacts need to be evaluated carefully. 4 7 Low - The impact is marginal / slight / minor - The impact is of little importance, but may require limited mitigation; or it may be rendered acceptable in light of proposed mitigation. 0 4 Low - The impact is unimportant / inconsequential / indiscernible no mitigation required, or it may be rendered acceptable in light of proposed mitigation. The significance rating of each identified impact / effect was further reviewed by the EAP by applying professional judgement. For the purpose of this assessment, the impact significance for each identified impact was evaluated according to the following key criteria outlined in the sub-sections below. NATURE OF IMPACT The environmental impacts of a project are those resultant changes in environmental parameters, in space and time, compared with what would have happened had the project not been undertaken. It is an appraisal of the type of effect the activity would have on the affected environmental parameter. Its description includes what is being affected and how. SPATIAL EXTENT This addresses the physical and spatial scale of the impact. A series of standard terms and ratings used in this assessment relating to the spatial extent of an impact / effect are outlined in Table 11. TABLE 11: Rating scale for the assessment of the spatial extent of a predicted effect / impact. RATING SPATIAL DESCRIPTOR 7 International - The impacted area extends beyond national boundaries. 6 National - The impacted area extends beyond provincial boundaries. 5 Ecosystem - The impact could significantly affect functioning ecosystems linked to the site. Regional - The impact could affect the greater area including the neighbouring areas, transport 4 routes and surrounding towns etc. Landscape - The impact could affect all areas generally visible, including ecosystems linked to the 3 site. Local - The impacted area extends slightly further than the actual physical disturbance footprint 2 and could affect the whole, or a measurable portion of adjacent areas. Site Related - The impacted area extends only as far as the activity e.g. the footprint. The loss is 1 inconsequential in terms of the spatial context of the relevant environmental or social aspect. SEVERITY / INTENSITY / MAGNITUDE This provides a qualitative assessment of the severity of a predicted impact / effect. A series of standard terms and ratings used in this assessment that relate to the magnitude of an impact / effect are outlined in Table 12. TABLE 12: Rating scale for the assessment of the severity / magnitude of a predicted effect / impact 1. RATING 7 MAGNITUDE DESCRIPTOR Total / consuming / eliminating - Function or process of the affected environment is altered to the extent that it is permanently changed. 1 Source: adapted from Glasson J, Therivel R & Chadwick A. Introduction to Environmental Impact Assessment, 2 nd Edition pp 258. Spoon Press, United Kingdom. 39 P a g e

48 Profound / considerable / substantial - Function or process of the affected environment is altered 6 to the extent where it is permanently modified to a sub-optimal state. Material / important - The affected environment is altered, but function and process continue, 5 albeit in a modified way. Discernible / noticeable - Function or process of the affected environment is altered to the extent 4 where it is temporarily altered, be it in a positive or negative manner. Marginal / slight / minor - The affected environment is altered, but natural function and process 3 continue. Unimportant / inconsequential / indiscernible - The impact temporarily alters the affected 2 environment in such a way that the natural processes or functions are negligibly affected. 1 No effect / not applicable DURATION This describes the predicted lifetime / temporal scale of the predicted impact. A series of standard terms and ratings used in this assessment are included in Table 13. TABLE 13: Rating scale for the assessment of the temporal scale of a predicted effect / impact. RATING TEMPORAL DESCRIPTOR Long term Permanent or more than 15 years post decommissioning. The impact remains beyond 7 decommissioning and cannot be negated. 3 Medium term Lifespan of the project. Reversible between 5 to 15 years post decommissioning. Short term Quickly reversible. Less than the project lifespan. The impact will either disappear with 1 mitigation or will be mitigated through natural process in a span shorter than any of the project phases or within 0-5 years. IRREPLACEABLE LOSS OF RESOURCES Environmental resources cannot always be replaced; once destroyed, some may be lost forever. It may be possible to replace, compensate for or reconstruct a lost resource in some cases, but substitutions are rarely ideal. The loss of a resource may become more serious later, and the assessment takes this into account. A series of standard terms and ratings used in this assessment are included in Table 14. TABLE 14: Rating scale for the assessment of loss of resources due to a predicted effect / impact. RATING RESOURCE LOSS DESCRIPTOR Permanent The loss of a non-renewable / threatened resource that cannot be renewed / recovered with, or through, natural process in a time span of over 15 years, or by artificial means. Long term The loss of a non-renewable / threatened resource that cannot be renewed / recovered with, or through, natural process in a time span of over 15 years, but can be mitigated by other means. Loss of an at risk resource - one that is not deemed critical for biodiversity targets, planning goals, community welfare, agricultural production, or other criteria, but cumulative effects may render such loss as significant. Medium term The resource can be recovered within the lifespan of the project. The resource can be renewed / recovered with mitigation or will be mitigated through natural process in a span between 5 and 15 years. Loss of an expendable resource - one that is not deemed critical for biodiversity targets, planning goals, community welfare, agricultural production, or other criteria. Short-term Quickly recoverable. Less than the project lifespan. The resource can be renewed / recovered with mitigation or will be mitigated through natural process in a span shorter than any of the project phases, or in a time span of 0 to 5 years. REVERSIBILITY / POTENTIAL FOR REHABILITATION 40 P a g e

49 The distinction between reversible and irreversible impacts is a very important one and the irreversible impacts not susceptible to mitigation can constitute significant impacts in an EIA (Glasson et al, 1999). The potential for rehabilitation is the major determinant factor when considering the temporal scale of most predicted impacts. A series of standard terms and ratings used in this assessment are included in Table 15. TABLE 15: Rating scale for the assessment of reversibility of a predicted effect / impact. RATING REVERSIBILITY DESCRIPTOR 7 Long term The impact / effect will never be returned to its benchmark state. Medium term The impact / effect will be returned to its benchmark state through mitigation or 3 natural processes in a span shorter than the lifetime of the project, or in a time span between 5 and 15 years. Short term The impact / effect will be returned to its benchmark state through mitigation or 1 natural processes in a span shorter than any of the phases of the project, or in a time span of 0 to 5 years. PROBABILITY The assessment of the probability / likelihood of an impact / effect has been undertaken in accordance with ratings and descriptors provided in Table 16. TABLE 16: Rating scale for the assessment of the probability of a predicted effect / impact 2. RATING PROBABILITY DESCRIPTOR 1.0 Absolute certainty / will occur 0.9 Near certainty / very high probability High probability / to be expected Medium probability / strongly anticipated 0.3 Low probability / anticipated 0.2 Possibility Remote possibility / unlikely MITIGATION The potential to mitigate the negative impact is determined and rated for each identified impact. Similarly, the mitigation objective that results in a measurable reduction or enhancement of the impact, is determined and rated. The significance of environmental impact and mitigation measures is assessed. The significance of the impact without mitigation is therefore the prime determinant of the nature and degree of mitigation required. vii) The positive and negative impacts that the proposed activity (in terms of the initial site layout) and alternatives will have on the environment and the community that may be affected. (Provide a discussion in terms of advantages and disadvantages of the initial site layout compared to alternative layout options to accommodate concerns raised by affected parties) Since the crushing plant is to be located within the existing, operational quarry footprint, no layout alternative is considered. It is advantageous to locate the staged mobile crushing plant within the exiting quarry footprint as an area of disturbance already exists from the current quarrying operations. 2 Source: adapted from Glasson J, Therivel R & Chadwick A. Introduction to Environmental Impact Assessment, 2 nd Edition pp 258. Spoon Press, United Kingdom. 41 P a g e

50 viii) The possible mitigation measures that could be applied and the level of risk. (With regard to the issues and concerns raised by affected parties provide a list of the issues raised and an assessment / discussion of the mitigations or site layout alternatives available to accommodate or address their concerns, together with an assessment of the impacts or risks associated with the mitigation or alternatives considered). No issues were raised by any Interested and Affected Party (IAP) during the Scoping Phase. Should any issues be raised during the period in which the Draft Impact Assessment Report and EMPr are circulated in the public domain, it will be added to the Final Impact Assessment Report that is submitted to the DMR. ix) Motivation where no alternative sites were considered. Since this application makes provision for the location of the staged mobile crushing plant within an existing, operational quarry, no alternative sites have been considered. It is considered that placing the staged mobile crushing plant within the existing mining area will facilitate good management of the operation, as well as the associated impacts. x) Statement motivating the alternative development location within the overall site. (Provide a statement motivating the final site layout that is proposed) It is considered that placing the crushing plant within the existing operational mining area of the quarry will facilitate good management of the operation, as well as the associated impacts. 42 P a g e

51 h) Full description of the process undertaken to identify, assess and rank the impacts and risks the activity will impose on the preferred site (In respect of the final site layout plan) through the life of the activity. (Including (i) a description of all environmental issues and risks that were identified during the environmental impact assessment process and (ii) an assessment of the significance of each issue and risk and an indication of the extent to which the issue and risk could be avoided or addressed by the adoption of mitigation measures). The process utilised to identify the impacts of the proposed activity included: Observations based on site visits; Input from the specialist baseline assessments and recommendations; Input from public participation; Consultation and discussions with the project team and Applicant; Application of previous knowledge and experience by the EAP for these types of projects in KwaZulu- Natal; and Knowledge and experience in the implementation of the EIA Regulations (2014). In terms of accessing and ranking the impacts, the EAP identified all environmental activities, aspects and impacts pertinent to the area and activity. This was supported by the identification of receptors and resources, which allowed for an understanding of the impact pathway and an assessment of the sensitivity to change. The identification and degree of assessment was based on the understanding of the following: An activity is a distinct process or task undertaken by an organisation for which a responsibility can be assigned. Activities also include facilities or pieces of infrastructure that are controlled by an organisation; An environmental aspect is an element of an organisations activities, products and services which can interact with the environment. The interaction of an aspect with the environment may result in an impact; Environmental risks / impacts are the consequences of these aspects on environmental resources or receptors of particular value or sensitivity; Receptors comprise but are not limited to people or man-made structures; Resources include components of the biophysical environment; Frequency of activity refers to how often the proposed activity will take place; Frequency of impact refers to the frequency with which a stressor (aspect) will impact on the receptor; Severity refers to the degree of change to the receptor status in terms of the reversibility of the impact; sensitivity of receptor to stressor; duration of impact; controversy potential and precedent setting; threat to environmental and health standards; Spatial extent refers to the geographical scale of the impact; and Duration refers to the length of time over which the stressor will cause a change in the resource. The significance of the impact was then assessed by rating each variable according to defined criteria. The purpose of the rating was to develop a clear understanding of influences and processes associated with each impact, both with and without mitigation. 43 P a g e

52 i) Assessment of each identified potentially significant impact and risk (This section of the report must consider all the known typical impacts of each of the activities (including those that could or should have been identified by knowledgeable persons) and not only those that were raised by registered interested and affected parties). The supporting impact assessment conducted by the EAP must be attached as an appendix, marked Appendix 6. Please refer to Table 17 for an assessment as per the DMR s requirements. Appendix 6 provides the Impact Assessment Table as per the Methodology utilised by the EAP described in PART A: 3 (g) (vi). 44 P a g e

53 TABLE 17: Potential residual risk after mitigation. ACTIVITY whether listed or not listed. (E.g.Excavations, blasting, stockpiles, discard dumps or dams, Loading, hauling and transport, water supply dams and boreholes, accommodation, offices, ablution, stores, workshops, processing plant, storm water control, berms, roads, pipelines, power lines, conveyors, etc...etc...etc.). Primary processing of a mineral: 1. Site clearing and earthworks 2. Construction of the crushing plant Primary processing of a mineral: 1. Operation of the crushing plant Primary processing of a mineral: 1. Decommissioning of the crushing plant POTENTIAL IMPACT (e.g. dust,noise, drainage surface disturbance, fly rock, surface water contamination, groundwater contamination, air pollution etc...etc...) 1. Dust nuisance 2. Noise nuisance 1. Health and Safety 2. Contaminated stormwater entering receiving environs 3. Noise impact associated with blasting 4. Air quality impacts associated with blasting 5. Structural impacts associated with blasting 6. Increase in nuisance dust 7. Increase in ambient noise levels 8. Employment opportunities (socio-economic) 1. Dust nuisance 2. Noise nuisance ASPECTS AFFECTED 1. Air quality 2. Sense of place 1. Health and safety 2. Surface water 3. Sense of place 4. Air quality 5. Geology 6. Air quality 7. Sense of place 8. Employment 1. Air quality 2. Sense of place PHASE in which impact is anticipated (e.g. construction, commissioning, operational, decommissioning, closure, postclosure) SIGNIFICANCE if not mitigated Construction 1. Low (-) 2. Low (-) Operational 1. Low (-) 2. Low (-) 3. Low (-) 4. Low (-) 5. Low (-) 6. Low (-) 7. Low (-) 8. High (+) Decommissioning Rehabilitation MITIGATION TYPE (modify, remedy, control, or stop) through (e.g. noise control measures, storm-water control, dust control, rehabilitation, design measures,blasting controls, avoidance, relocation, alternative activity etc. etc.) E.g. Modify through alternative method. Control through noise control. Control through management and monitoring through rehabilitation.. 1. Dust control 2. Noise control 1. Implementation of OSH Act 2. Stormwater management 3. Noise controls 4. Dust controls 5. Blasting controls 6. Dust controls 7. Noise controls 8. No mitigation required for employment opportunities Further, general site rehabilitation requirements will be implemented. 1. Dust control 2. Noise control SIGNIFICANCE if mitigated 1. Low (-) 2. Low (-) 1. Low (-) 2. Low (-) 3. Low (-) 4. Low (-) 5. Low (-) 6. Low (-) 7. Low (-) 8. High (+) 1. Low (-) 2. Low (-) 45 P a g e

54 j) Summary of specialist reports (This summary must be completed if any specialist reports informed the impact assessment and final site layout process and must be in the following tabular form). Attach copies of Specialist Reports as appendices. A Screening-Level Environmental Acoustic Impact Assessment and an Air Quality Screening Assessment were undertaken to determine the noise and air quality impacts which may result from the proposed development. Further, mitigation measures and recommendations were provided by the relevant Specialists. Please refer to Table 18 and Appendix P a g e

55 TABLE 18: Summary of specialist reports. LIST OF STUDIES UNDERTAKEN Air Quality RECOMMENDATIONS OF SPECIALIST REPORTS The Specialist Report notes, Particular Matter (PM) concentrations at the closest SPECIALIST RECOMMENDATIONS THAT HAVE BEEN INCLUDED IN THE EIA REPORT (Mark with a X were applicable) None included as the impacts of REFERENCE TO APPLICABLE SECTION OF REPORT WHERE SPECIALIST RECOMMENDATIONS HAVE BEEN INCLUDED N/A Screening residential receptor and beyond are expected to be low and are compliant with construction, operation and Assessment: their respective National Ambient Air Quality Standards. In this regard, no decommissioning and closure are WSP, November recommendations were given as the impact of construction, operation and considered to be low to very-low decommissioning and closure are considered to be low to very-low to receiving and thus no recommendations are receptors. given. Screening-Level Section 6.2, Mitigation recommendations, page 19 of the Specialist report states, X PART A: 3 (j) Table 18 and Environmental Since noise associated with the establishment and operational phases of the PART A: 3 (l) Acoustic Impact proposed development will not impact significantly on any surrounding receptors, Assessment: no specific noise mitigation interventions are recommended. Should Amasundu WSP, November Quarry want to decrease the establishment noise even further, the following mitigation options can be employed: Selection of establishment equipment with lower sound power levels; and The use of ear protection equipment for personnel working on-site in close proximity to noise sources. Although noise associated with blasting activities will not impact on the noise climate at any of the receiver locations, adequate blasting management techniques should be employed. This includes: Informing nearby residents as to when blasting will occur on a certain day at a given time; and Not blasting after day-time hours. 47 P a g e

56 k) Environmental impact statement i) Summary of the key findings of the environmental impact assessment The key impacts identified for the proposed establishment of a staged mobile crushing plant within the existing footprint of the Amasundu Gravel CC Quarry Pit include the impact on air quality from crushing and blasting operations (i.e. dust), as well as the impact on noise associated with crushing and blasting operations. Given the location of the existing quarry in an agricultural area with limited receptors, the significance of the operation of the staged mobile crushing plant is considered to be low. The only high impact identified is considered to be positive and that relates to the five (5) employment opportunities that will be created by the operation of the staged mobile crushing plant. Potential candidates for employment will be sourced from the local community. Further, assuming all phases of the project adhere to the conditions stated in the Environmental Management Programme (EMPr) (Part B of this report) it is believed that the noise and air quality impacts associated with the proposed staged mobile crushing plant will have no significant, adverse environmental impact on the surrounding environment. The preferred site alternative (i.e. locating the proposed staged mobile crushing plant within the existing quarry) did not identify any environmentally sensitive features which need to be considered during construction and operation. The activity is also considered to be sustainable given the presence of dolerite evident within the quarry, the existing Mining Right under which current mining operations occur and the market demand for the aggregate produced. ii) Final Site Map Provide a map at an appropriate scale which superimposes the proposed overall activity and its associated structures and infrastructure on the environmental sensitivities of the preferred site indicating any areas that should be avoided, including buffers. Attach as Appendix 2. Please find the Final Site Map attached as Appendix 2. iii) Summary of the positive and negative implications and risks of the proposed activity and identified alternatives The proposed establishment of a staged mobile crushing plant within the existing footprint of the Amasundu Gravel CC Quarry Pit will have the following negative impacts: Decrease in the sense of place (i.e. noise) at a local level as a result of noise impacts due to blasting and crushing activities. Note: As per the Screening-Level Environmental Acoustic Impact Assessment, this impact is considered to be low (refer to Appendix 7). Although this is considered to be a negative impact, it is localised and will not negatively impact on surrounding residents given the location of the site in an agricultural area with no immediate receptors present. Further, the outcome of the Air Quality Screening Assessment (Appendix 7) notes that the proposed activity will not impact on surrounding receptors and is compliant with the respective National Ambient Air Quality Standards. 48 P a g e

57 The positive impacts relate to the creation of five (5) new employment opportunities, of which the candidates will be sourced from the local community. Of these five (5) employment opportunities, two (2) will be offered to suitable woman candidates. Further, the product from the mining activity will feed into the greater socioeconomy of the surrounding area in terms of providing raw materials to the construction industry, which is currently experiencing positive growth and is improving employment prospects. 49 P a g e

58 l) Proposed impact management objectives and the impact management outcomes for inclusion in the EMPr Based on the assessment and where applicable the recommendations from specialist reports, the recording of proposed impact management objectives, and the impact management outcomes for the development for inclusion in the EMPr as well as for inclusion as conditions of authorisation. The purpose of the EMPr is to provide relevant management measures to conduct activities with due care and diligence, as well as avoid / limit any adverse impacts of the operation. The EMPr is compiled to help control impacts that may occur to meet acceptable standards, both as a legal and social responsibility to the environment within which the activity takes place. The objective of the EMPr is to create management structures that address the comments of stakeholders with regards to the development, establishes a method of monitoring and auditing environmental management practices during all phases of the activity and ensures that safety recommendations are complied with. Additionally, the EMPr provides a method to ensure performance and compliance with all the relevant regulatory authority provisions and guidelines, while monitoring of the commitments allows for continual feedback and opportunities for improvement. Based on the outcome of the Impact Assessment Table and associated Significance Scoring (Appendix 6), noise and dust (i.e. air quality) are the main aspects identified for environmental consideration during all stages of development (i.e. construction, operation, decommissioning and closure), albeit marginal. In this regard, the objectives of the EMPr are to decrease the level of noise and air quality impacts produced as a result of the activity. The outcomes of the EMPr based on the objectives, are to ensure that impact levels of noise and dust (i.e. air quality) are managed efficiently to prevent any detrimental nuisance to surrounding receptors. The Screening-Level Environmental Acoustic Impact Assessment (Appendix 7) notes that the establishment and operational phases of the proposed activity will not impact significantly on any surrounding receptors and as such, no specific noise mitigation interventions are recommended. However, the following can be included to assist in further reduction of noise impacts and thus can be included as Conditions of Authorisation: A staged mobile crushing plant with lower sound power levels should be utilised; and Appropriate Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) in the form of ear protection equipment must be utilised by personnel working on-site close proximity to noise sources. Further, although it was determined that noise associated with blasting activities will not impact on the noise climate at any of the receiver locations (see Appendix 7), adequate blasting management techniques should be employed. These include: Informing nearby residents as to when blasting will occur on a certain day at a given time; and Not blasting after day-time hours. 50 P a g e

59 The Air Quality Screening Assessment (Appendix 7) notes that the establishment and operational phases of the proposed activity will not impact significantly on any surrounding receptors and as such, no specific air mitigation interventions are recommended. Further, the proposed activity and the associated Particular Matter (PM) levels produced are in compliance with the respective National Ambient Air Quality Standards. However, it is recommended by the EAP that a dust monitoring system be established on site to determine the dust fallout generated by the activities undertaken on site. This is to be undertaken via the placement of dust buckets on site, which are to be monitored and the contents recorded on a monthly basis. 51 P a g e

60 m) Final proposed alternatives (Provide an explanation for the final layout of the infrastructure and activities on the overall site as shown on the final site map together with the reasons why they are the final proposed alternatives which respond to the impact management measures, avoidance, and mitigation measures identified through the assessment). The final site alternative is Portion 4 of the Farm Obanjeni No , located within the existing footprint of the Amasundu Gravel CC Quarry Pit. The final technology alternative is the use of a staged mobile crushing plant at it is the most applicable to the requirements of the quarry operations. The operational aspect considered to be the most appropriate from a management and operations point of view, is to locate product stockpiles on-site, within the existing operational quarry. Figure 5 provides the final layout of the proposed staged mobile crushing plant within the existing footprint of the Amasundu Gravel CC Quarry Pit. Location of Crushing Plant within boundaries of the existing gravel quarry Approved Mining Right area as indicated by pink outline Location of on-site stockpiles R102 FIGURE 5: Final layout of the proposed staged mobile crushing plant within the existing footprint of the Amasundu Gravell CC Quarry Pit. 52 P a g e

61 n) Aspects for inclusion as conditions of Authorisation. Any aspects which have not formed part of the EMPr that must be made conditions of the Environmental Authorisation. In terms of noise impacts, the following Conditions of Authorisation are provided: A staged mobile crushing plant with lower sound power levels should be utilised; and Appropriate Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) in the form of ear protection equipment must be utilised by personnel working on-site close proximity to noise sources. In terms of air quality (i.e. dust) impacts, the following Conditions of Authorisation are provided: A dust monitoring system is to be established and managed by the Applicant (or delegated down as appropriate) to determine the dust fallout generated on site by activities. 53 P a g e

62 o) Description of any assumptions, uncertainties and gaps in knowledge (Which relate to the assessment and mitigation measures proposed) As per the Screening-Level Environmental Acoustic Impact Assessment (Appendix 7), the following assumptions and limitations were made: All activities operate during the day-time and hence no night-time operations have been considered; It must be noted that the establishment and operational phase noise sources are based on estimated quantities using sound level data from the Noise NavigatorTM sound level database (Berger et al., 2010); The information provided regarding the establishment and operational activities is assumed to be representative of what will occur in reality; During the establishment phase, all equipment will be operational simultaneously; During the operational phase, all equipment will be operational simultaneously; The highest sound power levels for equipment were selected; An ambient acoustic monitoring campaign was not conducted at the site or at any nearby sensitive receptor locations. In order to quantify the existing noise climate for this assessment, a worst-case rural noise level of 45 db(a) during the day (the SANS guideline rating level for rural districts) was assumed to be a representative of the current noise levels in the region. As a worst-case scenario, the sum of all the establishment equipment was used in the noise propagation calculation with the noise emanating from the proposed development at the Amasundu Quarry to each respective sensitive receptor as no formal plans are available of the quarry site; and As a worst-case scenario the sum of all the operational equipment was used in the noise propagation calculation with the noise emanating from the proposed development at the Amasundu Quarry to each respective sensitive receptor as no formal plans are available of the quarry site. As per the Air Quality Screening Assessment (Appendix 7), the following assumptions and limitations were made: Particulate emission sources for the proposed development at the Amasundu Quarry emit 300 days per annum for 10 hours/day (Monday to Friday) and 7 hours/day on Saturdays; All sources have been quantified under the assumption that a constant volume of material will be in operation ( tonnes/annum); Emission factors as per the Australian Government NPI (NPI, 2012) have been applied for blasting and drilling; Emission factors as per the US EPA AP42 (US EPA, 1995) have been applied to all material handling and crushing sources; A hole spacing of 10 m was assumed for drilling; A depth of 10 m was assumed for blasting; All sources have been conservatively modelled as a single area source; A release height of 3 m has been assumed for the single area source; All emission rates presented are representative of both uncontrolled and controlled emissions; 54 P a g e

63 TSP has been qualitatively quantified but has further been excluded from the assessment as SCREEN 3 is a Level 1 model and cannot account for dust deposition (dust fallout); and Cumulative impacts have not been assessed as no background monitoring data is available. 55 P a g e

64 p) Reasoned opinion as to whether the proposed activity should or should not be authorised i) Reasons why the activity should be authorized or not. The proposed development will not result in impacts on the natural or social environment that are highly detrimental, nor result in undue risks to the natural environment. The nature and type of negative impacts identified do not outweigh the potential benefits of this project, provided that the short term localised impacts of the construction phase are adequately mitigated and the long-term impacts of the operational phase are managed appropriately. Further, the proposed staged mobile crushing plant is to be located within an existing, operational and authorised quarry. Based on the above, it is the opinion of the EAP that the activity should be authorised. ii) Conditions that must be included in the authorisation (1) Specific conditions to be included into the compilation and approval of EMPr In terms of noise impacts, the following Conditions of Authorisation are provided: A staged mobile crushing plant with lower sound power levels should be utilised; and Appropriate Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) in the form of ear protection equipment must be utilised by personnel working on-site close proximity to noise sources. In terms of air quality impacts, the following Conditions of Authorisation are provided: A dust monitoring system is to be established and managed by the Applicant (or delegated down as appropriate) to determine the dust fallout generated on site by activities. In terms of monitoring, it is recommended that an independent Environmental Control Officer (ECO) audit the activity against the EMPr bi-annually for the first two years of operation and once a year thereafter until such time as the existing Mining Right expires. (2) Rehabilitation requirements Rehabilitation will include for the decommissioning, dismantling and removal of the staged mobile crushing plant from site. Should any hydrocarbon spillages be evident, as a result of the crushing plant, they are to be removed via scrapping the contaminated soil and disposing of it in a registered hazardous waste disposal site. Any further rehabilitation requirements will be adopted as per the already approved Mining Right. 56 P a g e

65 q) Period for which the Environmental Authorisation is required. The Environmental Authorisation will be required for the duration of the current Mining Right. The Mining Right has been approved for a period of 25 years. r) Undertaking Confirm that the undertaking required to meet the requirements of this section is provided at the end of the EMPr and is applicable to both the Basic Assessment Report and the Environmental Management Programme report. The EAP undertakes that the information provided in PART A is correct, and that the comments and inputs from stakeholders and IAPs have been correctly recorded in the report. This is only applicable to the Environmental Impacts Assessment Report and EMPr as a Basic Assessment Process has not been undertaken. Refer to PART B: Section 2 for the EAP s signed undertaking. 57 P a g e

66 s) Financial Provision State the amount that is required to both manage and rehabilitate the environment in respect of rehabilitation. The Financial Provision for the removal of the staged mobile crushing plant from the quarry pit has been determined at a value of R (Incl. VAT). i) Explain how the aforesaid amount was derived. The Financial Provision was determined utilising the Guideline Document for the Evaluation of the Quantum of Closure-Related Financial Provision Provided by a Mine (2006). Please refer to calculations as provided below. The assumption was made that the area that will be impacted on by the staged mobile crushing plant will not exceed and area of 0.5ha. The amount calculated should be added to the current quantum calculation for the entire mining operation. ii) Confirm that this amount can be provided for from operating expenditure. (Confirm that the amount, is anticipated to be an operating cost and is provided for as such in the Mining work programme, Financial and Technical Competence Report or Prospecting Work Programme as the case may be). The amount that has been calculated will be added to the existing quantum calculation for the entire quarrying operation and will be provided for under the operating expenditure of the operation. 58 P a g e

67 t) Deviations from the approved scoping report and plan of study i) Deviations from the methodology used in determining the significance of potential environmental impacts and risks. (Provide a list of activities in respect of which the approved scoping report was deviated from, the reference in this report identifying where the deviation was made, and a brief description of the extent of the deviation). The methodology to rate the impacts and risks associated with the proposed establishment of a staged mobile crushing plant detailed in this Environmental Impact Assessment Report / EMPr have not deviated from those described in the Scoping Report. ii) Motivation for the deviation. No deviation occurred. 59 P a g e

68 u) Other Information required by the competent Authority i) Compliance with the provisions of sections 24(4)(a) and (b) read with section 24 (3) (a) and (7) of the National Environmental Management Act (Act 107 of 1998). the EIA report must include the:- (1) Impact on the socio-economic conditions of any directly affected person. (Provide the results of Investigation, assessment, and evaluation of the impact of the mining, bulk sampling or alluvial diamond prospecting on any directly affected person including the landowner, lawful occupier, or, where applicable, potential beneficiaries of any land restitution claim, attach the investigation report as Appendix and confirm that the applicable mitigation is reflected in 2.5.3; and 2.12.herein). The socio-economic impacts of the proposed development relate to the creation of five (5) new employment opportunities, of which candidates will be sourced from the local community. Of these five employment opportunities, two (2) will be offered to suitable women candidates. Further, the product from the mining activity will feed into the greater socio-economy of the surrounding area in terms of providing raw materials to the construction industry, which is currently experiencing positive growth and is improving employment prospects. (2) Impact on any national estate referred to in section 3(2) of the National Heritage Resources Act. (Provide the results of Investigation, assessment, and evaluation of the impact of the mining, bulk sampling or alluvial diamond prospecting on any national estate referred to in section 3(2) of the National Heritage Resources Act, 1999 (Act No. 25 of 1999) with the exception of the national estate contemplated in section 3(2)(i)(vi) and (vii) of that Act, attach the investigation report as Appendix and confirm that the applicable mitigation is reflected in 2.5.3; and 2.12.herein). A query regarding the need for comment was submitted to Amafa Heritage on 28 June To-date, no response has been received. Given the already highly disturbed area of the existing Amasundu Gravel CC Quarry Pit, in which quarrying activities already and continue to be conducted within, the necessity of undertaking a Heritage Impact Assessment is not considered to be practical given the geological nature of the dolerite present. Further, the existing quarry and associated approved Mining Right which has been issued took into account heritage implications prior to mining activities occurring on site. 60 P a g e

69 v) Other matters required in terms of sections 24(4)(a) and (b) of the Act (the EAP managing the application must provide the competent authority with detailed, written proof of an investigation as required by section 24(4)(b)(i) of the Act and motivation if no reasonable or feasible alternatives, as contemplated in subregulation 22(2)(h), exist. The EAP must attach such motivation as Appendix 4). Information regarding the baseline and potential impacts for the project are based on the information available, discussions with stakeholders, specialists, the Applicant and discussions with authorities. The EAP has included all identified impacts, based on the current scope, in this report and has assigned appropriate management measures to reduce and manage each identified impact, which are included in the EMPr provided as per Part B of this report. 61 P a g e

70 PART B: ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME REPORT 1. DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME a) Details of the EAP Confirm that the requirement for the provision of the details and expertise of the EAP are already included in PART A, section 1(a) herein as required). The details and expertise of the EAP are detailed in PART A: 3 (a) (i) and (ii). b) Description of the Aspects of the Activity (Confirm that the requirement to describe the aspects of the activity that are covered by the draft environmental management programme is already included in PART A, section (1)(h) herein as required). The details of the aspects of the activity are described above in PART A: 3 (b) and (d). c) Composite Map (Provide a map (Attached as an Appendix) at an appropriate scale which superimposes the proposed activity, its associated structures, and infrastructure on the environmental sensitivities of the preferred site, indicating any areas that any areas that should be avoided, including buffers) Refer to Appendix 2 for the Amasundu layout with all sensitivities and buffers identified. d) Description of Impact management objectives including management statements i) Determination of closure objectives (ensure that the closure objectives are informed by the type of environment described in 2.4 herein) As the proposed staged mobile crushing plant will be located within the existing and operational quarry, the closure objectives will entail decommissioning, dismantling and removing the staged mobile crushing plant from the site. Should any hydrocarbon spillages be evident, they are to be removed via scrapping the contaminated soil and disposing of it in a registered hazardous waste disposal site. Any further closure objectives for the quarry will be adopted as per the already approved Mining Right. ii) The process for managing any environmental damage, pollution, pumping and treatment of extraneous water or ecological degradation as a result of undertaking a listed activity. No water resources will be impacted on by the proposed establishment of the staged mobile crushing plant within the existing and operational dolerite quarry. iii) Potential risk of Acid Mine Drainage (Indicate whether or not the mining can result in acid mine drainage). There is limited risk to acid mine drainage given that the material being mined is dolerite. 62 P a g e

71 iv) Steps taken to investigate, assess, and evaluate the impact of acid mine drainage N/A v) Engineering or mine design solutions to be implemented to avoid or remedy acid mine drainage. N/A vi) Measures that will be put in place to remedy any residual or cumulative impact that may result from acid mine drainage. N/A vii) Volumes and rate of water use required for the mining, trenching or bulk sampling operation. N/A viii) Has a water use licence has been applied for? No. In terms of Section 21 of the National Water Act (Act No. 36 of 1998), there is no requirement for a Water Use Licence. ix) Impacts to be mitigated in their respective phases Measures to rehabilitate the environment affected by the undertaking of any listed activity Please refer to Table P a g e

72 TABLE 19: Impacts to be mitigated and their respective phases. ACTIVITIES (as listed in ) PHASE of operation in which activity will take place. SIZE AND SCALE of disturbance (volumes, tonnages and hectares or m²) Primary processing of a mineral: Construction Phase Site clearing and earthworks Construction of the crushing plant MITIGATION MEASURES (describe how each of the recommendations in herein will remedy the cause of pollution or degradation and migration of pollutants) Construction 42m 2 Increase in nuisance dust: The dust generated by the trucks and machinery during the site establishment phase (clearing of area for the footings of the crushing plant) will be localised to the mining site and will be suppressed by spraying the working surfaces with water. Dust masks will be provided to the employees if the dust on site becomes a hindrance to them. Emissions from the vehicles and machinery will be controlled and managed by keeping them in good working order with the factory standard, recommended exhaust systems in place. The mechanical maintenance of the equipment will be the responsibility of the Applicant. Increase in ambient noise levels: The noise generated by the trucks and machinery during the construction phase mitigated and managed by ensuring that the machinery is provided/fitted with the factory standard, recommended noise dampening and muffling equipment. Furthermore, the machinery will be kept in a good working order. These mechanical procedures and responsibilities are the responsibility of the Applicant. Construction 42m 2 Increase in nuisance dust: The dust generated by the trucks and machinery during the site establishment phase (clearing of area for the footings of the crushing plant) will be localised to the mining site and will be suppressed by spraying the working surfaces with water. Dust masks will be provided to the employees if the dust on site becomes a hindrance to them. COMPLIANCE WITH STANDARDS (A description of how each of the recommendations herein will comply with any prescribed environmental management standards or practices that have been identified by Competent Authorities) The Air Quality Screening Assessment (Appendix 7) notes that the proposed activity will not impact on surrounding receptors and is compliant with the respective National Ambient Air Quality Standards. As such, compliance with standards is not required, however, best practice standards will be adopted. The Screening-Level Environmental Acoustic Impact Assessment (Appendix 7) notes that the noise associated with the establishment and operational phases of the proposed development will not impact significantly on any surrounding receptors. As such, compliance with standards is not required, however, best practice standards will be adopted. The Air Quality Screening Assessment (Appendix 7) notes that the proposed activity will not impact on surrounding receptors and is compliant with the respective National Ambient Air Quality Standards. As such, compliance with standards is not TIME PERIOD FOR IMPLEMENTATION Describe the time period when the measures in the environmental management programme must be implemented. Measures must be implemented when required. Construction Construction Construction 64 P a g e

73 ACTIVITIES (as listed in ) PHASE of operation in which activity will take place. SIZE AND SCALE of disturbance (volumes, tonnages and hectares or m²) Primary processing of a mineral: Operational Phase Operation of the crushing plant MITIGATION MEASURES (describe how each of the recommendations in herein will remedy the cause of pollution or degradation and migration of pollutants) Emissions from the vehicles and machinery will be controlled and managed by keeping them in good working order with the factory standard, recommended exhaust systems in place. The mechanical maintenance of the equipment will be the responsibility of the Applicant. Increase in ambient noise levels: The noise generated by the trucks and machinery during the construction phase mitigated and managed by ensuring that the machinery is provided/fitted with the factory standard, recommended noise dampening and muffling equipment. Furthermore, the machinery will be kept in a good working order. These mechanical procedures and responsibilities are the responsibility of the Applicant. Operation 42m 2 Health and safety impacts: A staged mobile crushing plant with lower sound power levels should be utilised; and appropriate Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) in the form of ear protection, helmets, boots, dust masks and overalls etc. must be utilised by personnel working on-site close proximity to noise sources. Contaminated stormwater entering receiving environs: The current mining operations will result in an adjusted topography which will cause an alteration in the natural run-off from the site. Any water that accumulates on site will be allowed to drain from the site by making temporary channels in which the water can flow. The outlets of these channels to the surrounding areas will be packed with rocks to slow the water down suitably, to avoid erosion. In order to minimise the impact of run-off water becoming contaminated as it flows through the operating sections of the quarry site, with its associated roadways, COMPLIANCE WITH STANDARDS (A description of how each of the recommendations herein will comply with any prescribed environmental management standards or practices that have been identified by Competent Authorities) required, however, best practice standards will be adopted. The Screening-Level Environmental Acoustic Impact Assessment (Appendix 7) notes that the noise associated with the establishment and operational phases of the proposed development will not impact significantly on any surrounding receptors. As such, compliance with standards is not required, however, best practice standards will be adopted. Occupational Health and Safety Act (Act No. 85 of 1993) National Water Act (Act No. 36 of 1998) TIME PERIOD FOR IMPLEMENTATION Describe the time period when the measures in the environmental management programme must be implemented. Measures must be implemented when required. Construction Operation Operation 65 P a g e

74 ACTIVITIES (as listed in ) PHASE of operation in which activity will take place. SIZE AND SCALE of disturbance (volumes, tonnages and hectares or m²) MITIGATION MEASURES (describe how each of the recommendations in herein will remedy the cause of pollution or degradation and migration of pollutants) stockpiles and hard surface areas, the following procedures will be put in place: Areas to be disturbed will be kept as small as possible and large, steep, exposed cuts avoided, thereby limiting the extent of erosion and consequent siltation downstream during flood events; Regular servicing of the staged mobile crushing plant will be done to ensure that possible spillages from them will be minimized. If accidental spills do occur, they will be cleared up immediately by removing the pollutant and disposing of it at a registered landfill site; Dust suppression measures will be implemented where appropriate; and The amount of clean run-off passing through disturbed areas will be kept to a minimum by constructing graded banks and diversion channels ahead of the mining face, as well as above areas used for stockpiling of mined material and topsoil stockpiles so as to intercept run-off and lead it around disturbed areas. Noise impact associated with blasting: Blasting will only occur as and when needed as per the required production rates; Nearby residents will be informed as to when blasting will occur, inclusive of the date and time of when the blast is to occur; and Not blasting will occur on weekends. Air quality impact associated with blasting: Blasting will only occur as and when needed as per the required production rates. Should any nitrous oxide fumes be observed during a blast, blasting activity should be halted and the cause of the fumes identified and corrected. Causes include poor charging practices, incorrect explosives formulation or holes that are too close together in softer formations. COMPLIANCE WITH STANDARDS (A description of how each of the recommendations herein will comply with any prescribed environmental management standards or practices that have been identified by Competent Authorities) All blasting will take place in accordance with the Mine Health and Safety Regulations associated with blasting. All blasting will take place in accordance with the Mine Health and Safety Regulations associated with blasting. TIME PERIOD FOR IMPLEMENTATION Describe the time period when the measures in the environmental management programme must be implemented. Measures must be implemented when required. Operation Operation Vibration and air blast monitoring will be needed for all blasts to make sure that acceptable limits are being 66 P a g e

75 ACTIVITIES (as listed in ) PHASE of operation in which activity will take place. SIZE AND SCALE of disturbance (volumes, tonnages and hectares or m²) MITIGATION MEASURES (describe how each of the recommendations in herein will remedy the cause of pollution or degradation and migration of pollutants) achieved and to provide an indication of when modifications are needed to the blasting method to correct for increased vibration and air blast levels. The best method is to have vibration stations installed at strategic positions that are maintained and monitored by a third party. COMPLIANCE WITH STANDARDS (A description of how each of the recommendations herein will comply with any prescribed environmental management standards or practices that have been identified by Competent Authorities) TIME PERIOD FOR IMPLEMENTATION Describe the time period when the measures in the environmental management programme must be implemented. Measures must be implemented when required. Dust generated during blasts will not have a significant impact due to the absence of any receptors in the immediate vicinity. The blast will also not impact on the employees as they will all be evacuated from the site during each of the blasting events. All blasts will be conducted in accordance with a Blast Management Programme which will be compiled by a registered Blasting Contractor and approved by the Mine Health and Safety Section of the DMR for approval. Structural impacts associated with blasting: Blasting will only occur as and when needed as per the required production rates. The impact of vibration on people and buildings will be most severe in the 500 meter blast zone area of the quarry. The negative impact from blasting vibration will be felt unless the following measures are in place: All blasting that occurs closer than 500m from any house should be designed to reduce the charge mass per delay and thus limit vibration to below 25.0 mm/s in these areas where people live. This can be done by reducing hole diameters or introducing multiple charge decks into each hole or a combination of these two. Limited quantity holes will need to be fired one at a time during a blast at distances closer than 500 m from any third party structures. This is best-achieved using accurate detonators or shock tube. All blasting will take place in accordance with the Mine Health and Safety Regulations associated with blasting. Operation The blasting designs of the explosives contractor to control the vibration will have to be based on seismic characterization of the area during the early stages of 67 P a g e

76 ACTIVITIES (as listed in ) PHASE of operation in which activity will take place. SIZE AND SCALE of disturbance (volumes, tonnages and hectares or m²) MITIGATION MEASURES (describe how each of the recommendations in herein will remedy the cause of pollution or degradation and migration of pollutants) mining. These tools are necessary for effective blast designs to control vibration. Increase in nuisance dust: Fines (dust) will result from crushing activities. Dolerite as a rock, does not produce an excessive amount of dust due to its density. The increased exhaust emissions from the heavy vehicles will to a large degree be controlled by ensuring that the exhaust systems of these vehicles are all in acceptable functioning order. The maintenance of these systems is the responsibility of the Applicant. Increase in ambient noise levels: Noise control measures that will be employed during the activity will include the following: Scheduling works between 07:00 17:00 from Monday to Friday and 08:00 14:00 on Saturdays. to more acceptable times of day. Use of the most environmentally friendly acceptable plant and equipment that is properly maintained and silenced. Equipment must be used as prescribed by the manufacturer and must not be modified in any way that will result in an increase in the noise levels generated. Proper instruction and supervision of staff. All site activities and use of equipment must be undertaken in such a manner so as to avoid any undue and unnecessary noise impact on surrounding premises. Ensuring that vehicles are driven at low speeds and engines are not revved unnecessarily. Employment opportunities (socio-economic): This is considered to be a positive impact whereby five (5) employment opportunities will be created: The employment opportunities are to be sourced from the local community. Primary processing of a mineral: Decommissioning and Closure Phase Decommissioning and closure 42m 2 Increase in nuisance dust: The dust generated by the trucks and machinery during the site establishment COMPLIANCE WITH STANDARDS (A description of how each of the recommendations herein will comply with any prescribed environmental management standards or practices that have been identified by Competent Authorities) The Air Quality Screening Assessment (Appendix 7) notes that the proposed activity will not impact on surrounding receptors and is compliant with the respective National Ambient Air Quality Standards. As such, compliance with standards is not required, however, best practice standards will be adopted. The Screening-Level Environmental Acoustic Impact Assessment (Appendix 7) notes that the noise associated with the establishment and operational phases of the proposed development will not impact significantly on any surrounding receptors. As such, compliance with standards is not required, however, best practice standards will be adopted. Best practice standards The Air Quality Screening Assessment (Appendix 7) notes TIME PERIOD FOR IMPLEMENTATION Describe the time period when the measures in the environmental management programme must be implemented. Measures must be implemented when required. Operation Operation Operation Construction 68 P a g e

77 ACTIVITIES (as listed in ) Decommissioning of the crushing plant PHASE of operation in which activity will take place. SIZE AND SCALE of disturbance (volumes, tonnages and hectares or m²) MITIGATION MEASURES (describe how each of the recommendations in herein will remedy the cause of pollution or degradation and migration of pollutants) phase (clearing of area for the footings of the crushing plant) will be localised to the mining site and will be suppressed by spraying the working surfaces with water. Dust masks will be provided to the employees if the dust on site becomes a hindrance to them. Emissions from the vehicles and machinery will be controlled and managed by keeping them in good working order with the factory standard, recommended exhaust systems in place. The mechanical maintenance of the equipment will be the responsibility of the Applicant. Increase in ambient noise levels: The noise generated by the trucks and machinery during the construction phase mitigated and managed by ensuring that the machinery is provided/fitted with the factory standard, recommended noise dampening and muffling equipment. Furthermore, the machinery will be kept in a good working order. These mechanical procedures and responsibilities are the responsibility of the Applicant. COMPLIANCE WITH STANDARDS (A description of how each of the recommendations herein will comply with any prescribed environmental management standards or practices that have been identified by Competent Authorities) that the proposed activity will not impact on surrounding receptors and is compliant with the respective National Ambient Air Quality Standards. As such, compliance with standards is not required, however, best practice standards will be adopted. The Screening-Level Environmental Acoustic Impact Assessment (Appendix 7) notes that the noise associated with the establishment and operational phases of the proposed development will not impact significantly on any surrounding receptors. As such, compliance with standards is not required, however, best practice standards will be adopted. TIME PERIOD FOR IMPLEMENTATION Describe the time period when the measures in the environmental management programme must be implemented. Measures must be implemented when required. Construction 69 P a g e

78 e) Impact Management Outcomes (A description of impact management outcomes, identifying the standard of impact management required for the aspects contemplated in paragraph (); Please refer to Table P a g e

79 TABLE 20: Impacts to be mitigated and their respective phases. ACTIVITY whether listed or not listed. (E.g. Excavations, blasting, stockpiles, discard dumps or dams, Loading, hauling and transport, Water supply dams and boreholes, accommodation, offices, ablution, stores, workshops, processing plant, storm water control, berms, roads, pipelines, power lines, conveyors, etc etc etc.). Primary processing of a mineral: 1. Site clearing and earthworks 2. Construction of the crushing plant Primary processing of a mineral: 1. Operation of the crushing plant Primary processing of a mineral: 1. Decommissioning of the crushing plant POTENTIAL IMPACT (e.g. dust, noise, drainage surface disturbance, fly rock, surface water contamination, groundwater contamination, air pollution etc.etc ) 1. Dust nuisance 2. Noise nuisance 1. Health and Safety 2. Contaminated stormwater entering receiving environs 3. Noise impact associated with blasting 4. Air quality impacts associated with blasting 5. Structural impacts associated with blasting 6. Increase in nuisance dust 7. Increase in ambient noise levels 8. Employment opportunities (socio-economic) 1. Dust nuisance 2. Noise nuisance ASPECTS AFFECTED 1. Air quality 2. Sense of place 1. Health and safety 2. Surface water 3. Sense of place 4. Air quality 5. Geology 6. Air quality 7. Sense of place 8. Socio-economic 1. Air quality 2. Sense of place PHASE In which impact is anticipated (e.g. Construction, commissioning, operational decommissioning, closure, postclosure) Construction Operational Decommissioning and closure MITIGATION TYPE (modify, remedy, control, or stop) through (e.g. noise control measures, stormwater control, dust control, rehabilitation, design measures, blasting controls, avoidance, relocation, alternative activity etc. etc) E.g. Modify through alternative method. Control through noise control Control through management and monitoring Remedy through rehabilitation. 1. Dust control 2. Noise control 1. Control through implementation of OSH Act 2. Stormwater management 3. Noise controls 4. Dust controls 5. Blasting controls 6. Dust controls 7. Noise controls 8. Employment requirements Further, general site rehabilitation requirements will be implemented. 1. Dust control 2. Noise control STANDARD TO BE ACHIEVED (Impact avoided, noise levels, dust levels, rehabilitation standards, end use objectives) etc. 1. Air quality maintained 2. Noise levels reduced. 1. Health and safety standards implemented and maintained 2. Prevent erosion impacts, downstream siltation and contamination. 3. Noise level reduced 4. Air Quality levels maintained 5. Blasting controls implemented 6. Air Quality levels maintained 7. Noise level reduced 8. Skills creation and knowledge transfer achieved. 1. Air quality maintained 2. Noise levels reduced. 71 P a g e

80 f) Impact Management Actions (A description of impact management actions, identifying the manner in which the impact management objectives and outcomes contemplated in paragraphs (c) and (d) will be achieved). Please refer to Table P a g e

81 TABLE 21: Impacts to be mitigated and their respective phases. ACTIVITY whether listed or not listed. POTENTIAL IMPACT (e.g. dust, noise, drainage surface disturbance, fly rock, surface water contamination, groundwater contamination, air pollution etc.etc ) Primary processing of a mineral: Construction Phase Primary processing of a mineral: 1. Site clearing and earthworks 1. Dust nuisance 2. Noise nuisance MITIGATION TYPE (modify, remedy, control, or stop) through (e.g. noise control measures, stormwater control, dust control, rehabilitation, design measures, blasting controls, avoidance, relocation, alternative activity etc. etc) Increase in nuisance dust: The dust generated by the trucks and machinery during the site establishment phase (clearing of area for the footings of the crushing plant) will be localised to the mining site and will be suppressed by spraying the working surfaces with water. Dust masks will be provided to the employees if the dust on site becomes a hindrance to them. Emissions from the vehicles and machinery will be controlled and managed by keeping them in good working order with the factory standard, recommended exhaust systems in place. The mechanical maintenance of the equipment will be the responsibility of the Applicant. TIME PERIOD FOR IMPLEMENTATION Describe the time period when the measures in the environmental management programme must be implemented Measures must be implemented when required. COMPLIANCE STANDARDS WITH Construction The Screening-Level Environmental Acoustic Impact Assessment (Appendix 7) notes that the noise associated with the establishment and operational phases of the proposed development will not impact significantly on any surrounding receptors. As such, compliance with standards is not required, however, best practice standards will be adopted. 2. Construction of the crushing plant 1. Dust nuisance 2. Noise nuisance Increase in ambient noise levels: The noise generated by the trucks and machinery during the construction phase mitigated and managed by ensuring that the machinery is provided/fitted with the factory standard, recommended noise dampening and muffling equipment. Furthermore, the machinery will be kept in a The Air Quality Screening Assessment (Appendix 7) notes that the proposed activity will not impact on surrounding receptors and is compliant with the respective National Ambient Air Quality Standards. As such, compliance with standards is not required, however, best practice standards will be adopted. Construction The Screening-Level Environmental Acoustic Impact Assessment (Appendix 7) notes that the noise associated with the establishment and 73 P a g e

82 ACTIVITY whether listed or not listed. POTENTIAL IMPACT (e.g. dust, noise, drainage surface disturbance, fly rock, surface water contamination, groundwater contamination, air pollution etc.etc ) MITIGATION TYPE (modify, remedy, control, or stop) through (e.g. noise control measures, stormwater control, dust control, rehabilitation, design measures, blasting controls, avoidance, relocation, alternative activity etc. etc) good working order. These mechanical procedures and responsibilities are the responsibility of the Applicant. TIME PERIOD FOR IMPLEMENTATION Describe the time period when the measures in the environmental management programme must be implemented Measures must be implemented when required. COMPLIANCE STANDARDS WITH operational phases of the proposed development will not impact significantly on any surrounding receptors. As such, compliance with standards is not required, however, best practice standards will be adopted. Primary processing of a mineral: Operational Phase Primary processing of a mineral: 1. Operation of the crushing plant 1. Health and Safety Health and safety impacts: A staged mobile crushing plant with lower sound power levels should be utilised; and appropriate Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) in the form of ear protection, helmets, boots, dust masks and overalls etc. must be utilised by personnel working on-site close proximity to noise sources. 2. Contaminated stormwater entering receiving environs Contaminated stormwater entering receiving environs: The current mining operations will result in an adjusted topography which will cause an alteration in the natural run-off from the site. Any water that accumulates on site will be allowed to drain from the site by making temporary channels in which the water can flow. The outlets of these channels to the surrounding areas will be packed with rocks to slow the water down suitably, to avoid erosion. Operational Operational The Air Quality Screening Assessment (Appendix 7) notes that the proposed activity will not impact on surrounding receptors and is compliant with the respective National Ambient Air Quality Standards. As such, compliance with standards is not required, however, best practice standards will be adopted. Occupational Health and Safety Act (Act No. 85 of 1993) National Water Act (Act No. 36 of 1998) 74 P a g e

83 ACTIVITY whether listed or not listed. POTENTIAL IMPACT (e.g. dust, noise, drainage surface disturbance, fly rock, surface water contamination, groundwater contamination, air pollution etc.etc ) 3. Noise impact associated with blasting 4. Air quality impacts associated with blasting MITIGATION TYPE (modify, remedy, control, or stop) through (e.g. noise control measures, stormwater control, dust control, rehabilitation, design measures, blasting controls, avoidance, relocation, alternative activity etc. etc) In order to minimise the impact of run-off water becoming contaminated as it flows through the operating sections of the quarry site, with its associated roadways, stockpiles and hard surface areas, the following procedures will be put in place: Areas to be disturbed will be kept as small as possible and large, steep, exposed cuts avoided, thereby limiting the extent of erosion and consequent siltation downstream during flood events; Regular servicing of all machinery will be done to ensure that possible spillages from them will be minimized. If accidental spills do occur, they will be cleared up immediately by removing the pollutant and disposing of it at a registered landfill site; Dust suppression measures will be implemented where appropriate; and The amount of clean run-off passing through disturbed areas will be kept to a minimum by constructing graded banks and diversion channels ahead of the mining face as well as above areas used for stockpiling of mined material and topsoil stockpiles so as to intercept run-off and lead it around disturbed areas. Noise impact associated with blasting: Blasting will only occur as and when needed as per the required production rates. Nearby residents will be informed as to when blasting will occur, inclusive of the date and time of when the blast is to occur; and Not blasting after day-time hours. Air quality impact associated with blasting: Blasting will only occur as and when needed as per the required production rates. Should any nitrous oxide fumes be observed during a blast, blasting activity should be halted and the cause of the fumes identified and corrected. Causes include poor charging practices, incorrect explosives formulation or holes that are too close together in softer formations. TIME PERIOD FOR IMPLEMENTATION Describe the time period when the measures in the environmental management programme must be implemented Measures must be implemented when required. Operational Operational COMPLIANCE STANDARDS WITH All blasting will take place in accordance with the Mine Health and Safety Regulations associated with blasting. All blasting will take place in accordance with the Mine Health and Safety Regulations associated with blasting. 75 P a g e

84 ACTIVITY whether listed or not listed. POTENTIAL IMPACT (e.g. dust, noise, drainage surface disturbance, fly rock, surface water contamination, groundwater contamination, air pollution etc.etc ) MITIGATION TYPE (modify, remedy, control, or stop) through (e.g. noise control measures, stormwater control, dust control, rehabilitation, design measures, blasting controls, avoidance, relocation, alternative activity etc. etc) Vibration and air blast monitoring will be needed for all blasts to make sure that acceptable limits are being achieved and to provide an indication of when modifications are needed to the blasting method to correct for increased vibration and air blast levels. TIME PERIOD FOR IMPLEMENTATION Describe the time period when the measures in the environmental management programme must be implemented Measures must be implemented when required. COMPLIANCE STANDARDS WITH The best method is to have vibration stations installed at strategic positions that are maintained and monitored by a third party. Dust generated during blasts will not have a significant impact due to the absence of any receptors in the immediate vicinity. The blast will also not impact on the employees as the will all be evacuated from the site during each of the blasting events. All blasts will be conducted in accordance with a Blast Management Programme which will be compiled by a registered Blasting Contractor and approved by the Mine Health and Safety Section of the DMR for approval. 5. Structural impacts associated with blasting Structural impacts associated with blasting: Blasting will only occur as and when needed as per the required production rates. The impact of vibration on people and buildings will be most severe in the 500 meter blast zone area of the quarry. The negative impact from blasting vibration will be felt unless the following measures are in place: All blasting that occurs closer than 500m from any house should be designed to reduce the charge mass per delay and thus limit vibration to below 25.0 mm/s in these areas where people live. This can be done by reducing hole diameters or introducing multiple charge decks into each hole or a combination of these two. Limited quantity holes will need to be fired one at a time during a blast at distances closer than 500 m from any third party structures. This is best-achieved using accurate detonators or shock tube. Operational All blasting will take place in accordance with the Mine Health and Safety Regulations associated with blasting. The blasting designs of the explosives contractor to control the vibration will have to be based on seismic characterization of the 76 P a g e

85 ACTIVITY whether listed or not listed. POTENTIAL IMPACT (e.g. dust, noise, drainage surface disturbance, fly rock, surface water contamination, groundwater contamination, air pollution etc.etc ) 6. Increase in nuisance dust 7. Increase in ambient noise levels MITIGATION TYPE (modify, remedy, control, or stop) through (e.g. noise control measures, stormwater control, dust control, rehabilitation, design measures, blasting controls, avoidance, relocation, alternative activity etc. etc) area during the early stages of mining. These tools are necessary for effective blast designs to control vibration. Increase in nuisance dust: Fines (dust) will result from crushing activities. Dolerite as a rock, does not produce an excessive amount of dust due to its weight. The increased exhaust emissions from the heavy vehicles will to a large degree be controlled by ensuring that the exhaust systems of these vehicles are all in acceptable functioning order. The maintenance of these systems is the responsibility of the applicant. Increase in ambient noise levels: Noise control measures that will be employed during the activity will include the following: Scheduling works between 07:00 17:00 from Monday to Friday and 08:00 14:00 on Saturdays. to more acceptable times of day. Use of the most environmentally friendly acceptable plant and equipment that is properly maintained and silenced. Equipment must be used as prescribed by the manufacturer and must not be modified in any way that will result in an increase in the noise levels generated. Proper instruction and supervision of staff. All site activities and use of equipment must be undertaken in such a manner so as to avoid any undue and unnecessary noise impact on surrounding premises. Ensuring that vehicles are driven at low speeds and engines are not revved unnecessarily. 8. Socio-Economic Employment opportunities (socio-economic): This is considered to be a positive impact whereby five (5) employment opportunities will be created: The employment opportunities are to be sourced from the local community. TIME PERIOD FOR IMPLEMENTATION Describe the time period when the measures in the environmental management programme must be implemented Measures must be implemented when required. COMPLIANCE STANDARDS WITH Operational The Air Quality Screening Assessment (Appendix 7) notes that the proposed activity will not impact on surrounding receptors and is compliant with the respective National Ambient Air Quality Standards. As such, compliance with standards is not required, however, best practice standards will be adopted. Operational The Screening-Level Environmental Acoustic Impact Assessment (Appendix 7) notes that the noise associated with the establishment and operational phases of the proposed development will not impact significantly on any surrounding receptors. As such, compliance with standards is not required, however, best practice standards will be adopted. Operational Best practice standards 77 P a g e

86 ACTIVITY whether listed or not listed. POTENTIAL IMPACT (e.g. dust, noise, drainage surface disturbance, fly rock, surface water contamination, groundwater contamination, air pollution etc.etc ) Primary processing of a mineral: Decommissioning and Closure Phase Primary processing of a mineral: 1. Decommissioning of the crushing plant 1. Dust nuisance 2. Noise nuisance 1. Dust nuisance 2. Noise nuisance MITIGATION TYPE (modify, remedy, control, or stop) through (e.g. noise control measures, stormwater control, dust control, rehabilitation, design measures, blasting controls, avoidance, relocation, alternative activity etc. etc) Further, general site rehabilitation requirements will be implemented. Increase in nuisance dust: The dust generated by the trucks and machinery during the site establishment phase (clearing of area for the footings of the crushing plant) will be localised to the mining site and will be suppressed by spraying the working surfaces with water. Dust masks will be provided to the employees if the dust on site becomes a hindrance to them. Emissions from the vehicles and machinery will be controlled and managed by keeping them in good working order with the factory standard, recommended exhaust systems in place. The mechanical maintenance of the equipment will be the responsibility of the Applicant. Increase in ambient noise levels: The noise generated by the trucks and machinery during the construction phase mitigated and managed by ensuring that the machinery is provided/fitted with the factory standard, recommended noise dampening and muffling equipment. Furthermore, the machinery will be kept in a good working order. These mechanical procedures and responsibilities are the responsibility of the Applicant. TIME PERIOD FOR IMPLEMENTATION Describe the time period when the measures in the environmental management programme must be implemented Measures must be implemented when required. Decommissioning closure and COMPLIANCE STANDARDS WITH The Air Quality Screening Assessment (Appendix 7) notes that the proposed activity will not impact on surrounding receptors and is compliant with the respective National Ambient Air Quality Standards. As such, compliance with standards is not required, however, best practice standards will be adopted. The Screening-Level Environmental Acoustic Impact Assessment (Appendix 7) notes that the noise associated with the establishment and operational phases of the proposed development will not impact significantly on any surrounding receptors. As such, compliance with standards is not required, however, best practice standards will be adopted. 78 P a g e

87 i) Financial Provision (1) Determination of the amount of Financial Provision (a) Describe the closure objectives and the extent to which they have been aligned to the baseline environment described under Regulation 22 (2)(d) as described in 2.4 herein. As the proposed staged mobile crushing plant will be located within the existing and operational quarry, the closure objectives will entail decommissioning, dismantling and removing the staged mobile crushing plant from the site. Should any hydrocarbon spillages be evident, as a result of the stage mobile crushing plant, they are to be removed via scrapping the contaminated soil and disposing of it in a registered hazardous waste disposal site. Any further closure objectives for the quarry will be adopted as per the already approved Mining Right. In terms of the receiving baseline environment, the location of the staged mobile crushing plant is proposed to be sited within the existing and operational dolerite quarry. As such, the site is already extensively disturbed as a result of quarrying operations. The closure objectives are therefore limited and the impact of decommissioning of the staged mobile crushing plant are considered to be low. (b) Confirm specifically that the environmental objectives in relation to closure have been consulted with landowner and interested and affected parties. Stakeholder engagement during the Impact Assessment Phase will involve the availability of the Environmental Impact Assessment Report / EMPr for public review and the submission of the report to identified stakeholders for comment. The following information is contained within the Environmental Impact Assessment Report / EMPr (this report): The project description (site layout, alternatives investigated) and the surrounding baseline environment; Findings from the specialist studies undertaken; Potential biophysical and socio-economic impacts during construction, operations and decommissioning / closure phases of the activity; Management / mitigation measures developed to address the potential impacts; The closure objectives, plan and financial provision; and Details on how stakeholders can comment on the Environmental Impact Assessment / EMPr. (c) Provide a rehabilitation plan that describes and shows the scale and aerial extent of the main mining activities, including the anticipated mining area at the time of closure. Since the staged mobile crushing plant is to be located within the existing authorised quarry, the existing rehabilitation measures implemented for the approved Mining Right will be utilised. 79 P a g e

88 (d) Explain why it can be confirmed that the rehabilitation plan is compatible with the closure objectives. Once the staged mobile crushing plant has been removed from the quarry site the closure objectives associated with the quarrying operation will be applied. These make provision for the backfilling and reshaping of the pit area as well as the scarifying of the all other operational surfaces. These areas will then be covered in topsoil and where possible the area will be replanted to sugarcane. Since the closure objectives of the quarry operations is to return the area to sugarcane production, the removal of the stage mobile crushing plant off site is in line with meeting these objectives. (e) Calculate and state the quantum of the financial provision required to manage and rehabilitate the environment in accordance with the applicable guideline. The Financial Provision was determined utilising the Guideline Document for the Evaluation of the Quantum of Closure-Related Financial Provision Provided by a Mine (2006). Please refer to calculations as provided below. The assumption was made that the area that will be impacted on by the staged mobile crushing plant will not exceed and area of 0.5ha. The amount calculated should be added to the current quantum calculation for the entire mining operation. 80 P a g e