Rossing Uranium Mine Flashcards
What is the resource peak
Resource peak is the phase of maximum production of a resource before depletion occurs.
The top of the ‘Hubbert’s curve’
Where the resources are the cheapest
This can be hard to predict
What is an Environmental impact assessment?
An EIA is the assessment of the environmental consequences, positive and negative, usually completed for a planned resource development project
In the EU EIAs have been enshrined in law since 1999
The Rossing Uranium Mine an example of sustainable resource development.
Located in Namibia
It has produced 2.3% of the world’s uranium
It provides 900 jobs and provides wealth for the Namibian economy.
If Uranium prices decrease the TNC Rio Tinto will support jobs
This creates a multiplier effects
Social sustainability
monthly checks for radioactive contamination, despite the ore being very low grade.
Building the new town of Arandis, with housing, health clinic and hospital.
Environmental sustainability
Screening of the site is unnecessary because of the remote location.
Since the mine is located in a desert causing a shortages of water.
Effluent are treated and water is recycled.
Dust controlled via spraying water
What are the types of stock resource evaluation.
Measured reserves - These can be estimated with confidence as quantity, grade and quality are well established.
Indicated reserves - the reserve is less confidence than measured reserves.
Inferred reserves - The reserves can be estimated on the basis of only limited sampling.
Possible reserves - Hypothetical and speculatory resources.
