The UNFCCC's Momentum for Change initiative aims to promote a workable framework to combat climate change by raising the profile of successful adaptation and mitigation projects and effective public-private partnerships (PPP) in developing countries.
“UNFCCC recognition is testament to the plant's considerable success. Since the eMalahleni water reclamation plant was commissioned in 2007 it has created far-reaching benefits for the environment, the local community and its feeder collieries and had received widespread endorsement as a beat practice model," Anglo American head of sustainable development for the other mining and industrial business unit Peter Gunther said.
The eMalahleni water reclamation plant was designed to take into account the remaining 20 to 25 year life of contributing mines, and to cater for post-closure liabilities. Ultimately it will help address long-term climate adaptation risks and promote a sustainable future for the region, providing better flexibility and self-sufficiency in terms of water use.
Anglo American's thermal coal business, BHP Billiton Energy Coal South Africa (Becsa) and the eMalahleni local municipality undertook the eMalahleni PPP.
The eMalahleni plant uses the latest water purification technology to desalinate 30 Ml of water to potable quality per day, with plans to expand capacity to 50 Ml/d by the end of 2013. This rising underground water is sourced from Anglo American Thermal Coal's Landau, Greenside and Kleinkopje collieries, as well as from Becsa's disused South Witbank mine. Read the full report here.
Source: by Henry Lazenby, Mining Weekly.com, Johannesburg.
