After obtaining a number of regulatory approvals for the Dolphin tungsten mine, Group 6 Metals (ASX : G6M), an emerging producer has confirmed that it will increase construction activities at this site using an environmentally-friendly approach.
Dolphin, located on King Island is home to the largest tungsten deposit in the west.
Group 6 regards conservation of the environment as a top priority and it is a central part of the project redevelopment plan.
Conservation covenant land
The company has designated 337,000 square meters of land at the Grassy mine site as conservation covenant area to protect the Blue Gum eucalyptus forests, which provide nesting sites and habitats for some of the King Islands’ endangered flora-and fauna.
Hydro Tasmania will receive a $2 million grant from the government to upgrade the 11 kilovolt line that runs to Dolphin. Group 6 will have access to the King Islands power grid to conduct construction and mining operations.
This power will be a large part of green renewable energy, which will lower the mine’s overall carbon footprint.
Sustainable development
Keith McKnight, chief executive officer, stated that Group 6 is committed to sustainable development.
He said that we are focused on sustainable operations to preserve the environment, protect wildlife, and create economic opportunity in the area for local people and businesses through development and long-term operation at the Dolphin mine.
We will prioritize local employment wherever possible and implement training programs to local people looking for skilled employment at the mine.
Economic driver
The King Islands economy was driven by Dolphin in the past. Mr McKnight hopes that it will again play a significant economic role through its redevelopment.
He said that he was grateful for the support from the local authorities and the wider community, which it continues to work in a highly constructive way.
We are determined to make Dolphin a sustainable and responsible development, while creating employment, growth, and economic returns.
Group 6 will initially concentrate on the production of a high-quality tungsten concentrate from Dolphin. Then, plans are to value-add the product to the upstream tungsten market.