Amaroq Minerals has received approval from the Government of Greenland for the EIA and social impact assessment (SIA) for its Nalunaq project.
Located 30km north-east of Nanortalik, the Nalunaq gold mine produced around 350,000oz ounces of gold (average 15g/t) from 2004 to 2013.
The historically operating high-grade gold mine was acquired by Amaroq in 2015. Since then, the company expanded the mine’s resource base, developed a new geological model to better understand the high-grade ore distribution, and acquired around 60% of the necessary infrastructure to resume production.
The EIA aimed to identify, predict, and communicate potential environmental impacts during the Nalunaq project’s various phases including construction, operations, closure, and post-closure. It also outlined mitigation and monitoring measures to minimize negative environmental effects.
The SIA evaluated the project’s impact on social conditions, ensuring that the development benefits local communities. Amaroq Minerals plans to commence production from the Nalunaq project at the end of 2024.
Amaroq ESG executive vice-president Joan Plant said: “Securing these approvals validates that the company’s operations are fully aligned with government guidelines and strategies, and that it is fully supported by our local communities who recognize that we hold ourselves accountable to the highest standards. We now look forward to working with the Government of Greenland and Kommune Kujalleq on the Impact Benefit Agreement (IBA), which we aim to have in place by the end of the year.”
Additional Insight: Importance of EIA and SIA in Mining Projects
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Social Impact Assessment (SIA) play crucial roles in ensuring sustainable mining practices. By evaluating the potential environmental impacts and social implications of mining projects, companies like Amaroq Minerals can proactively address concerns, mitigate risks, and implement measures to protect the environment and support local communities.
