Delegation visit strengthens ties between WA and China

DMP provides mine site rehabilitation advice to Chinese delegation
Date: Thursday, 05 May 2016

Exploring Western Australian investment opportunities in mine site rehabilitation and soil treatment was the focus of a recent delegation from China.

The Department of Mines and Petroleum (DMP) hosted the six-member delegation, which included senior members from the Shanghai Research Institute of Chemistry Industry (SRICI) and representatives from Perth-based Chinese businesses.

The delegation was also interested in gaining an understanding of the government expectations regarding mine site rehabilitation and closure here in Western Australia.

During the visit members of the Environmental Division delivered a presentation highlighting rehabilitation risk mitigation in Western Australia and regulatory requirements for mining proposals and mine closure plans.

DMP's Acting Executive Director Environment Karen Caple said it is important that the department liaises with international businesses looking to establish partnerships in Western Australia to ensure that they are aware of the DMP's legislative requirements.

"A key role of DMP is to ensure that resource industry activities are designed, operated, decommissioned, rehabilitated and closed in a sustainable manner that is consistent with agreed environmental outcomes and end land uses" Ms Caple said.

During the meeting, SRICI shared their experiences in soil remediation and the rehabilitation of industrial sites.

"This was a unique opportunity for the department to gain an insight into rehabilitation methods adopted in other jurisdictions," Ms Caple said.

The visit was facilitated by the Department of State Developmentā€™s International Trade and Investment Division.