To minimise, mitigate and manage the negative impact our operations have on the environment, we prioritise the responsible use, conservation and rehabilitation of the natural resources on which we rely. The focus areas described below not only align with our vision for a thriving, low-carbon future, but also enable us to create enduring value for our stakeholders.
| Why this matters | Our response | |
| Restoring and protecting biodiversity | Mining activities have an impact on the environment by causing biodiversity loss, destroying natural ecosystems and affecting the people who rely on them for survival. |
We protect the natural environment by implementing biodiversity management plans that set standards for monitoring and reporting, aiming to create a low‑impact legacy for current and future generations. Biodiversity is also a critical enabler of building resilience in the face of climate change.
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| Integrating mine closure and rehabilitation | Responsible closure and rehabilitation are essential to leave a positive environmental legacy and uplift communities long after mining operations have ceased. |
We conduct integrated closure planning and concurrent rehabilitation, ensuring compliance with legislation and sustainable practices while providing alternative land use options for communities and employees.
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| Improving water security | Access to quality water is essential for our operations and communities. This is because we operate in South Africa where public infrastructure is declining and water remains scarce. Effective water management protects our licence to operate, addresses climate variability and watershed risks, supports biodiversity efforts and reduces competition for scarce resources. |
We manage water-related risks, minimise impacts on the environment and communities, and operate efficiently to support long-term resource resilience and responsible water use.
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| Managing waste responsibly | Waste generated by our mining activities could negatively impact the environment and communities if not managed and mitigated responsibly. Responsible waste management reduces environmental degradation and contributes to sustainable development. |
We prioritise prevention, minimisation, reuse and recycling of waste, ensuring safe disposal only as a last resort to create lasting benefits for the environment and surrounding communities.
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Research and educational institutions
Through partnerships with universities and research institutes as well as initiatives like Coaltech, we advance sustainable mine water management, land use planning and rehabilitation strategies that enhance water security and responsible mine closure practices.
Industry and government departments
Exxaro engages with government bodies (eg DFFE, DMRE, DWS and provincial departments) and industry groups like the Minerals Council South Africa and BUSA, to ensure regulatory compliance, influence public policy on waste and mine closure, and tackle air and water quality issues facing the mining sector.
Communities
We work closely with local communities to co-create solutions that address the environmental and social impact of our operations. These engagements aim to strengthen local economies, foster skills development and create opportunities for sustainable waste-to-product conversions. Exxaro also works with community groups to ensure restored land benefits biodiversity and agriculture.
NGO and environmental organisation alliances
Partnerships with conservation groups, including the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) and Peace Parks Foundation, allow Exxaro to leverage external expertise for our biodiversity and water protection programmes. These partnerships support ongoing monitoring, conservation initiatives and the preservation of local ecosystems impacted by mining.
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