Copper World’s proposed aquifer protection permit too weak, Pima County says
Copper World's proposed aquifer protection permit too weak, Pima County says Arizona Daily Star
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Arizona County Officials Call for Stronger Aquifer-Protection Requirements for Copper World Mine
Introduction
Arizona County officials are urging the strengthening of aquifer-protection requirements for the proposed Copper World mine to prevent groundwater pollution. The officials argue that the current proposal offers less protection for the aquifer compared to the previous Rosemont Mine proposal.
Concerns Raised by County Officials
- The use of water to convey tailings in a slurry pipeline
- Operation of an unlined tailings facility
- Uncovered waste rock dumps at closure
- Inadequate monitoring systems
- Proximity to municipal water supplies and rural domestic wells
Response from Hudbay Minerals Inc.
Hudbay Minerals Inc., the mining company behind the Copper World project, claims that their project meets all industry standards and environmental laws. They also state that their tailing seepage will meet drinking water standards.
Proposed Permit Conditions and Design Requirements
Pima County officials are requesting that the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) add tougher permit conditions, design requirements, and review procedures to protect the aquifer. They also suggest that ADEQ encourage the use of industry standards to minimize pollution.
Key Concerns and Responses
- No tailings liner: County officials argue that the tailings storage facilities should be lined to prevent seepage into the aquifer. Hudbay Minerals Inc. claims that the ground’s geology acts as a natural liner and captures most seepage.
- Stormwater pond capacity: The county questions the capacity of the mine’s main stormwater pond to handle runoff from a 100-year storm. Hudbay Minerals Inc. states that the pond’s capacity was determined through a water balance analysis and a Site Stormwater Management Plan.
- “Hydraulic sink”: County officials argue that the large East Pit should be regulated as a discharging facility. Hudbay Minerals Inc. asserts that the pit will act as a hydraulic sink and groundwater will not flow out into adjacent areas.
- Timing: The county believes that the permit is premature as Hudbay Minerals Inc. has not applied for necessary federal permits. Hudbay Minerals Inc. states that the State Land right-of-way is final and legally effective, eliminating the need for additional approvals.
- Mine life: The county raises concerns about the project’s total life, which could extend beyond the proposed 15-year phase. Hudbay Minerals Inc. clarifies that their current focus is on the first phase of the project and that future phases are subject to further study and permits.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation | 6.3: Improve water quality by reducing pollution, eliminating dumping, and minimizing release of hazardous chemicals and materials | No specific indicators mentioned in the article |
| SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production | 12.4: By 2020, achieve the environmentally sound management of chemicals and all wastes throughout their life cycle, in accordance with agreed international frameworks, and significantly reduce their release to air, water, and soil in order to minimize their adverse impacts on human health and the environment | No specific indicators mentioned in the article |
| SDG 15: Life on Land | 15.1: By 2020, ensure the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services, in particular forests, wetlands, mountains, and drylands, in line with obligations under international agreements | No specific indicators mentioned in the article |
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
The article discusses the need for stronger aquifer-protection requirements for the proposed Copper World mine to prevent groundwater pollution. This aligns with SDG 6, which aims to ensure the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.
SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
The article mentions the need to minimize pollution and the release of hazardous chemicals and materials from the mining operation. This relates to SDG 12, which focuses on promoting sustainable consumption and production patterns.
SDG 15: Life on Land
The article discusses the potential impact of the mining operation on terrestrial ecosystems, including forests and drylands. This connects to SDG 15, which aims to protect, restore, and sustainably use terrestrial ecosystems.
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
– Target 6.3: Improve water quality by reducing pollution, eliminating dumping, and minimizing the release of hazardous chemicals and materials.
– Target 12.4: Achieve the environmentally sound management of chemicals and all wastes throughout their life cycle, and significantly reduce their release to air, water, and soil.
– Target 15.1: Ensure the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
The article does not mention any specific indicators that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets. However, it highlights the need for stronger aquifer-protection requirements, minimizing pollution, and ensuring the environmentally sound management of chemicals and wastes.
Therefore, potential indicators could include measures of water quality, pollution levels, waste management practices, and the conservation and restoration of terrestrial ecosystems.
4. SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation | 6.3: Improve water quality by reducing pollution, eliminating dumping, and minimizing release of hazardous chemicals and materials | No specific indicators mentioned in the article |
| SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production | 12.4: By 2020, achieve the environmentally sound management of chemicals and all wastes throughout their life cycle, in accordance with agreed international frameworks, and significantly reduce their release to air, water, and soil in order to minimize their adverse impacts on human health and the environment | No specific indicators mentioned in the article |
| SDG 15: Life on Land | 15.1: By 2020, ensure the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services, in line with obligations under international agreements | No specific indicators mentioned in the article |
Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.
Source: tucson.com
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