AusIMM caught up with Carl Grant, former global head of mine closure planning at Anglo and a facilitator of the newly launched AusIMM Integrated Mine Closure Certificate to understand the importance of mine closure activities.
As an esteemed expert in mine closure and rehabilitation, Grant emphasised that integrated mine closure is not just an event that occurs at a particular site in the distant future; it is a continuous process that unfolds throughout the entire lifecycle of a mine.
One of the major barriers faced by leadership in embracing integrated mine closure is the perception that it is a distant concern, with little impact on their current operations. However, this outdated perspective needs to be reevaluated. Leaders need to recognise that the process of mine closure significantly impacts the financial health of the organisation.
Grant highlighted that closure liabilities must be represented on a company’s balance sheet under the international financial reporting systems.
The closure costs can be discounted over the remaining life of the mine, affecting the net present value (NPV) of the organisation. This NPV, being a critical aspect of the balance sheet, draws the attention of senior leaders, as it directly influences the company’s financial performance.
Delaying or neglecting progressive rehabilitation and closure activities can lead to significant financial burdens in the future. As the mine nears its closure, the liability continues to increase, while the production cash flow decreases. The result is an immense financial strain, as the organisation must allocate funds for closure activities without generating revenue.
To optimise the closure liabilities and ensure a successful mine closure, leaders must take a proactive approach during the operating phase of the mine. Implementing progressive rehabilitation and closing redundant infrastructure during this phase allows organisations to spread out the liabilities over time, leading to better financial optimisation.
By prioritising integrated mine closure and engaging in progressive rehabilitation during the mine’s active phase, leaders can demonstrate good governance practices and attract and retain investors seeking sustainable and responsible investments.
The Integrated Mine Closure Professional Certificate offers mining professionals the opportunity to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of integrated mine closure. Led by industry experts like Carl Grant, the course equips participants with practical tools to integrate closure considerations throughout the mine’s life cycle and make informed decisions that positively impact the organisation’s financial performance and reputation.
As leaders, it is our responsibility to shape a sustainable future for the mining industry. Let us prioritise integrated mine closure and demonstrate our commitment to environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and financial excellence. Enrol in the Integrated Mine Closure Professional Certificate today and lead the way towards a brighter and more responsible mining future.
