Minerals are a natural physical resource and essential to every person's life. They are used to make and supply almost everything we use every day – from roads and buildings to water and electricity.

Our modern society demands a continual supply of minerals, which generally must be extracted from the ground. Mineral exploration and production is therefore necessary to sustain our present society. The extraction of minerals and a protected environment can and do co-exist in New Zealand. Member companies of the NZMIA are strongly committed to ensuring environmental responsibility within the minerals industry by supporting operating practices which are both an effective use of resources and are protective of the environment.

Management of mineral resources

In keeping with our obligations under the Resource Management Act, we will manage the development and production of mineral resources in a manner which ensures that any adverse effects on the environment area avoided, minimised, or mitigated.

We will seek to ensure significant mineral resources remain accessible.

Environmental management……

• We will conduct environmental impact assessments as an integral part of planning mineral development projects, and will continue to retain professional advice on environmental matters during our operations.
• We will submit sound applications for resource consents and land access arrangements which incorporate measures for the protection of the environment.
• We will participate in the setting of resource consent conditions which are both relevant and practical, and will monitor our operations to ensure compliance.
• We will observe recognised industry performance standards to avoid or mitigate any adverse effects of mineral development on the environment, and to ensure that land affected by mineral development is rehabilitated to a condition suitable for its ongoing use.

Strategic environmental planning……

• We will participate in the strategic planning processes of regional and district councils and support minerals policies which direct the management of environmental effects of activities, rather than the activities themselves.
• We will actively participate in legislative reform and the formulation of policies, regulations, guidelines, and standards which affect the minerals industry.
• We will support conservation management strategies which are consistent with the continued development of mineral resources alongside protection of the environment.

Community involvement……

• We acknowledge community interest in environmental issues associated with mineral development and will seek to establish and maintain regular contact with communities on company proposals and activities.
• We acknowledge the tangata whenua status of local iwi and will seek to establish and maintain an effective and trusting working relationship with Maori groups.
• We will be responsible corporate citizens.

Research & education……

• We will support research which increases our understanding of the potential environmental effects of our operations, and assists us to develop innovative environmental management policies and practices.
• We will produce and distribute educational material to schools and communities to increase their exposure to factual information about mineral development and the environment.
• We will provide opportunities for visits by interested parties to exploration sites and operating mines and quarries.