Development and operation of our project will have a number of direct impacts on the current environment as areas are disturbed and new landforms created. Fortunately, we have the opportunity to integrate into the existing mining landscape by use previously disturbed areas.

Initial studies have been carried out within the project location and will continue to be conducted over the next few years. Gathered information from these baseline studies will be used to inform future environmental impact studies relating to issues such as air, water, soil, noise, natural environments, landscape, cultural heritage, energy, health effects, tailings and residue management, post-mining management and so on.

All studies, will be carried out by independent experts and will serve as a basis for applying for the various permissions, permits and consents that the project will have to obtain before we start.

Project Design Principles – Biodiversity

Each identified direct project impact will be subject to the following principles: 

Avoid, Reduce, Compensate 
 

  • Avoid any impacts or disturbance on species and natural processes, particularity in designated sensitive areas
  • Minimise negative impacts on biodiversity that could not be avoided in design or operations of extractive sites
  • Restore affected areas, and allow biodiversity and ecosystems to regenerate
  • Offset any residual impacts by working to achieve Biodiversity Net Gain
     

Our project will need to prove a net gain in biodiversity (i.e. the delivery of the project will mean a net positive impact on the variety and variability of plants/animal species in the near vicinity of the sites).

We will deliver at least a 10 percent increase in biodiversity value compared to the pre-development state, either by enhancing existing habitats on-site or creating new ones off-site. This gain will be maintained for at least 30 years.

Working with scientific partners

Imerys works closely with recognised scientific partners in the field of biodiversity with the restoration of historic mining areas creation of lowland heathland, rare and threaten habitat and planting of woodlands areas. We will continue this approach.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Your Questions about environmental impact

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How will the project ensure a net gain in biodiversity during the planning process?

To achieve a positive outcome in the planning process, the project will need to prove a net gain in biodiversity (i.e. the delivery of the project will mean a net positive impact on the variety and variability of plants/animal species in the near vicinity of the sites).

We will deliver at least a 10% increase in biodiversity value compared to the pre-development state, either by enhancing existing habitats on-site or creating new ones off-site. This gain will be maintained for at least 30 years.

How will you minimise your impact on the local environment and communities?

We will work closely with Cornwall Council, Natural England, Historic England and local charities such as Cornwall Wildlife Trust to minimise impact on the environment, wildlife and historic environment. We will also engage with the local communities in this area and take on board as many opinions and as much local knowledge as possible.

What impact will the plant have on the environment, wildlife and land including ancient monuments etc?

The processing plant and quarry are to be located within an existing Imerys kaolin quarry. The surrounding area has been quarried for hundreds of years. Imerys has over the years developed close relationships with local communities affected by mining works and has a good track record of acting on any concerns or problems, quickly and effectively. We will continue to work in this way.
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