nuclear-news

World’s biggest open pit operation could be a reality

World’s biggest open pit operation could be a reality   Australian Journal of Mining By Paula Wallace —  Jun 11, 2009  “…………………….BHP is not releasing any information in relation to potential costs of the proposed expansion but some industry experts have guessed at a figure between $10 and 15 billion.
Whilst it has outlined a number of aspects of the massive Roxby Downs development, the miner has been criticised by environmental, anti-nuclear and community groups for not providing a wider range of alternatives which for one would take into account concerns about radioactive waste at the mine site and in downstream uses………………………………….In 2007 South Australian Premier Mike Rann reportedly said, “BHP Billiton is expecting the South Australian Government to invest hundreds of millions of dollars into this mine through the provision of infrastructure and services…we want and expect a decent return on our investment,” said Rann…………………BHP said that it is currently “continuing discussions with the South Australian Government about the provision of public infrastructure necessary to support the expansion of the Roxby Downs township.”…………………..The project will require the approval of the South Australian, Northern Territory and Federal Governments to proceed, and in its current form includes huge water and energy demands.
The study states that an expanded mine would consume five times as much power as the current Olympic Dam mine and consume 250 megalitres of water a day – an increase from the current daily level of 37 megalitres.
The plan has a desalination plant being built near Whyalla to provide most of the water required, while a new 105 kilometre rail link will be needed to connect the mine to the Adelaide-Darwin railway.
The effects these water and energy demands will have on the company’s overall carbon footprint and that of South Australia, have concerned environmental and community groups.

June 12, 2009 - Posted by Christina Macpherson | Uncategorized