Single logo
LoginSign Up

Mine Rehabilitation and Closure Planning Audit Checklist

A comprehensive checklist for auditing mine rehabilitation and closure planning processes, focusing on environmental restoration, social transition, and long-term sustainability.

Mine Rehabilitation and Closure Planning Audit Checklist

by: audit-now
4.4

Get Template

About This Checklist

Effective mine rehabilitation and closure planning are essential for ensuring environmental sustainability and social responsibility in the mining industry. This comprehensive Mine Rehabilitation and Closure Planning Audit Checklist is designed to evaluate the adequacy and progress of mine closure strategies from the early stages of mine planning through to post-closure monitoring. By systematically assessing land reclamation efforts, environmental restoration, socio-economic transition plans, and long-term monitoring strategies, this checklist helps mining companies ensure compliance with regulations, minimize environmental impacts, and leave a positive legacy in mining communities. Regular audits using this checklist can significantly enhance the effectiveness of closure planning, reduce long-term liabilities, and improve stakeholder relationships.

Learn more

Industry

Mining and Metals

Standard

ICMM Mine Closure Guide

Workspaces

Active Mine Site and Surrounding Areas

Occupations

Environmental Manager
Mine Closure Specialist
Rehabilitation Engineer
Community Relations Officer
Sustainability Coordinator
1
Have stakeholders been adequately engaged in the rehabilitation planning process?
2
What is the total area size of contaminated land that requires remediation?
Min: 0
Target: 0
Max: 1000
3
What progressive rehabilitation measures have been implemented?
4
Are biodiversity restoration activities compliant with the restoration plan?
5
Provide an overview of the mine closure plan.
6
Is the current environmental restoration process compliant with regulations?
7
What is the total area size restored to meet ecological standards?
Min: 0
Target: 0
Max: 500
8
What techniques are being used for contamination remediation?
9
Has the community been engaged in the restoration process?
10
What challenges have been faced during the environmental restoration process?
11
Is the proposed post-mining land use plan compliant with stakeholder expectations?
12
What is the area designated for alternative uses post-mining?
Min: 0
Target: 0
Max: 100
13
What sustainable practices are being implemented in the post-mining land use?
14
What is the approval date for the post-mining land use plan?
15
Describe the future vision for the land use post-mining.
16
Has a community impact assessment been conducted for the social transition plan?
17
What is the total amount of funds allocated for social transition programs?
Min: 0
Target: 0
Max: 1000000
18
What feedback have stakeholders provided regarding the social transition plan?
19
When was the last review of the social transition plan conducted?
20
What challenges have been faced during the social transition process?
21
Is the progressive rehabilitation plan being implemented as per the established guidelines?
22
How much material has been reused in the rehabilitation process (in cubic meters)?
Min: 0
Target: 0
Max: 50000
23
What stakeholder engagement activities have been conducted during the rehabilitation?
24
When was the last review of the rehabilitation progress conducted?
25
What lessons have been learned from the progressive rehabilitation efforts?

FAQs

Mine rehabilitation and closure planning audits should be conducted throughout the mine's lifecycle, starting from the feasibility study stage. They should be performed annually during operations, with more comprehensive reviews every 3-5 years or when significant changes to the mine plan occur. The frequency may increase as the mine approaches closure.

This checklist covers progressive rehabilitation efforts, final landform design, soil and water management, biodiversity restoration, contamination assessment and remediation, socio-economic impact mitigation, community engagement, post-closure monitoring plans, and financial provisions for closure.

The audit should be led by an environmental manager or closure specialist, with input from a multidisciplinary team including geotechnical engineers, ecologists, hydrologists, social scientists, and financial experts. Stakeholder representatives and regulatory authorities should also be consulted during the audit process.

The checklist includes items to evaluate plans for workforce transition, alternative economic development for mining-dependent communities, preservation of cultural heritage, and ongoing stakeholder engagement. It also assesses the adequacy of social impact assessments and mitigation strategies related to mine closure.

Yes, this checklist is designed to be applicable to various types of mining operations, including open-pit, underground, and alluvial mining. However, it may need to be customized to address specific closure challenges related to the type of mining, local ecosystem, and community context of each operation.

Benefits of Mine Rehabilitation and Closure Planning Audit Checklist

Ensures compliance with mine closure regulations and industry best practices

Helps minimize long-term environmental impacts and liabilities

Improves planning for post-mining land use and community transition

Enhances stakeholder engagement and social license to operate

Supports sustainable development goals and corporate social responsibility