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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
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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.

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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?

Select the status of stakeholder engagement.

To ensure that all relevant parties are involved in the decision-making process.
2
What is the total area size of contaminated land that requires remediation?

Enter the size of the contaminated area in hectares.

To assess the extent of contamination for effective remediation planning.
Min: 0
Target: 0
Max: 1000
3
What progressive rehabilitation measures have been implemented?

List the measures taken for progressive rehabilitation.

To document ongoing rehabilitation efforts and their effectiveness.
4
Are biodiversity restoration activities compliant with the restoration plan?

Select compliance status of biodiversity restoration activities.

To ensure that biodiversity restoration efforts meet set guidelines.
5
Provide an overview of the mine closure plan.

Describe the key elements of the mine closure plan.

To understand the comprehensive strategy for mine closure.
6
Is the current environmental restoration process compliant with regulations?

Select the compliance status of the environmental restoration process.

To ensure adherence to environmental laws and standards.
7
What is the total area size restored to meet ecological standards?

Enter the size of the restored area in acres.

To evaluate the effectiveness of restoration efforts in terms of land area.
Min: 0
Target: 0
Max: 500
8
What techniques are being used for contamination remediation?

List the contamination remediation techniques being utilized.

To document and assess the methods employed for contamination remediation.
9
Has the community been engaged in the restoration process?

Indicate whether the community has been engaged.

To ensure community involvement and input in restoration efforts.
10
What challenges have been faced during the environmental restoration process?

Describe the challenges encountered in the restoration process.

To identify obstacles that may hinder successful restoration.
11
Is the proposed post-mining land use plan compliant with stakeholder expectations?

Select the compliance status of the post-mining land use plan.

To ensure that the land use plan aligns with the needs and expectations of stakeholders.
12
What is the area designated for alternative uses post-mining?

Enter the area designated for alternative uses in square kilometers.

To quantify the land allocated for sustainable post-mining uses.
Min: 0
Target: 0
Max: 100
13
What sustainable practices are being implemented in the post-mining land use?

List the sustainable practices being utilized in post-mining land use.

To assess the incorporation of sustainable practices in land use planning.
14
What is the approval date for the post-mining land use plan?

Enter the date when the post-mining land use plan was approved.

To track the timeline of approvals related to land use planning.
15
Describe the future vision for the land use post-mining.

Provide a detailed vision for future land use.

To understand the long-term goals and intentions for the land after mining activities cease.
16
Has a community impact assessment been conducted for the social transition plan?

Select the status of the community impact assessment.

To ensure that potential social impacts are evaluated and addressed.
17
What is the total amount of funds allocated for social transition programs?

Enter the amount allocated in local currency.

To assess financial commitment to social programs during the transition.
Min: 0
Target: 0
Max: 1000000
18
What feedback have stakeholders provided regarding the social transition plan?

Summarize the feedback received from stakeholders.

To gather insights and reactions from stakeholders about the plan.
19
When was the last review of the social transition plan conducted?

Enter the date of the last plan review.

To maintain a timeline for regular reviews and updates of the plan.
20
What challenges have been faced during the social transition process?

Describe the challenges encountered during the social transition.

To identify barriers that may affect the success of the social transition.
21
Is the progressive rehabilitation plan being implemented as per the established guidelines?

Select the compliance status of the progressive rehabilitation plan.

To verify that rehabilitation efforts align with regulatory requirements and best practices.
22
How much material has been reused in the rehabilitation process (in cubic meters)?

Enter the volume of reused material in cubic meters.

To assess the effectiveness of material reuse in reducing waste and promoting sustainability.
Min: 0
Target: 0
Max: 50000
23
What stakeholder engagement activities have been conducted during the rehabilitation?

List the engagement activities conducted with stakeholders.

To ensure that stakeholder inputs are considered in the rehabilitation process.
24
When was the last review of the rehabilitation progress conducted?

Enter the date of the last rehabilitation progress review.

To maintain a consistent review schedule for assessing rehabilitation progress.
25
What lessons have been learned from the progressive rehabilitation efforts?

Describe the lessons learned during the rehabilitation process.

To document experiences that can improve future rehabilitation practices.

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