Association de l'exploration minière du Québec (AEMQ)

Certification Environment

Standard Requirements

Jul 23, 2020

 
AIR, WATER AND SOIL QUALITY
 
Mineral exploration activities must be carried out in such a way as to have the least impact on the environment. With respect to air quality, particulate emissions from material transfer, dropping or handling are considered as a priority. Several other elements are regulated to ensure the quality of water and soil, including forest management, hazardous materials, water withdrawals, sediments, camps and site restoration.
 

 
EFFICIENT USE OF RESOURCES
 
From an efficiency perspective, the use of resources must be quantified in the aim of consumption reduction and continuous improvement. With respect to waste generation, the standard proposes to manage residual materials using the 3RV-E approach: Source Reduction, Reuse, Recycling, Recovery and Disposal. Disposal is the last resort. In addition, a waste management plan must be developed and include clear targets for reducing landfill.
 

 
RESPECT FOR SENSITIVE AREAS AND WILDLIFE HABITAT
 
Verification of the presence of sensitive areas, wildlife or floristic species on the territory and the application of the mitigation or avoidance measures recommended by the various departments (federal and provincial) are mandatory. Given the diversity of species present on the territory as well as the various protective measures applicable, close collaboration with the concerned ministries is essential. Wildlife and floristic species in private territory are also protected by the standard.
 
 
USE OF RESPONSIBLE TECHNOLOGIES
 
In order to reduce their environmental and social footprint as well as the costs associated with their activities, certified companies must pay particular attention to innovation. Specifically, they must foster the acquisition of knowledge and provide information monitoring, in addition to using responsible technologies to improve the quality of the environment and to help preserve the quality of life of the communities.
 

 


Source: https://aemq.org/en/certification-environment/