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MPhil in Engineering for Sustainable Development

global challenges, engineering solutions
 

Planning for mine closure at the Klirou copper-zinc project in Cyprus

The legacy of a mining project is strongly dictated by how well it is closed. A key to sustainable mine closure planning is early and deliberate planning. Uncertainty in planning stages conflicts with the need for early consideration of sustainable outcomes, but this can be overcome by regular and critical reviews of closure plans. Acid rock drainage is often a significant mine closure issue, as is the case with the Klirou copper-zinc project. Case studies show that early and deliberate planning can effectively manage legacy issues such as acid rock drainage. Effective stakeholder engagement in mine closure alternatives is essential for reaching sustainable outcomes. The multiple attribute analysis application developed by the author can be used in transparent interactive stakeholder engagement processes and provides a mechanism for overcoming differences between stakeholders.

Course Overview

Context

The need to engage in better problem definition through careful dialogue with all stakeholder groups and a proper recognition of context.

Perspectives

An ability to work with specialists from other disciplines and professional groups acknowledging that technical innovation and business skills also must be understood, nurtured and combined as precursors to the successful implementation of sustainable solutions.

Change

An understanding of mechanisms for managing change in organisations so future engineers are equipped to play a leadership role.

Tools

An awareness of a range of assessment frameworks, sustainability metrics and methodologies such as Life Cycle Analysis, Systems Dynamics, Multi-Criteria Decision making and Impact Assessment.