The Northern Territory Environment Protection Authority (NT EPA) has recommended approval for Arafura Resources’ Nolans project in Australia after completing an environmental impact assessment.

The recommendation is based on certain operational controls the company is required to put in place to mitigate environmental impacts and risks.

Arafura aims to mine rare earth elements from the project, which includes open-cut mining and processing over a mine-life of 55 years.

The regulatory body has now submitted environmental impact assessment report and recommendations to the government.

It is expected that mining wastes comprising radioactive materials would be permanently stored onsite.

NT EPA chairman Dr Paul Vogel said: “This proposal comes with long-term environmental risks that will require a high level of ongoing regulatory scrutiny across government.”

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.
“This should go some way to securing final government approval for the project.”

A total of 16 recommendations have been put forward by the NT EPA focusing on ensuring efficient management of tailings, residue, and waste during operation, closure, and post-decommissioning.

The body called for an independent technical review and operational oversight to contain the risks associated with potential contaminants and ensure the presence of naturally occurring radioactive materials in the waste streams is kept to a minimum level.

In addition, the NT EPA has recommended further hydrological investigations such as refining the groundwater model, setting site-specific groundwater level triggers and adaptive management of groundwater use.

Arafura Resources managing director Gavin Lockyer said: “This should go some way to securing final government approval for the project, enabling construction to move forward, subject to financing and a final investment decision (FID).”

The company expects to secure environmental approval from the government during the current quarter.