Reko Diq Mining Completes Environmental and Social Impact Assessment

on 26/12/2024

Reko Diq Mining Company (RDMC), in line with its commitment to responsible and sustainable mining practices, has completed the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) for its project. The comprehensive assessment has been submitted to the relevant government authorities for their review and approval.  
The ESIA is a critical step in ensuring that RDMC’s operations meet the highest global environmental and social standards. Over the course of 2.5 years, a team of independent experts conducted thorough social and environmental studies, working closely with local communities, environmental organizations, and government stakeholders.  
These studies evaluated the potential environmental and social impacts of the project, including effects on air quality, water, biodiversity, and local populations’ well-being, as noted in a recent news release. The project design incorporates a mitigation hierarchy, with ongoing management plans to address any identified impacts.  
“We are fully committed to the sustainable development of our project, and the completion of this ESIA marks a major milestone in ensuring our operations are both environmentally responsible and beneficial to the communities we work with,” said Ashley Price, ESIA Manager for RDMC.  
“The insights from these studies will guide our efforts to manage risks, while maximizing the positive impacts of the project and minimizing potential negative effects.”  
This ESIA complies with the regulatory requirements of the Balochistan Environmental Protection Act (2012) and Sindh Environmental Protection Act (2014). It also aligns with the International Finance Corporation’s (IFC) Performance Standards on Environmental and Social Sustainability (2012), the World Bank Group’s Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) Guidelines, the Equator Principles, and the Global Industry Standard for Tailings Management (GISTM).  
Throughout the process, RDMC has engaged continuously with local communities and other key stakeholders to ensure their concerns are reflected in the impact assessment.  
The ESIA is currently under review by regulators in Balochistan and Sindh, as well as by an internationally recognized independent company.  
In line with Barrick’s policy, RDMC remains committed to responsible resource development and aims to create value for local communities through job creation, infrastructure development, and environmental stewardship. — ERMD/APP/PR