Newmont Ghana’s Akyem Mine, Newmont Golden Ridge Limited, has been recognised for demonstrating exceptional performance in environmental management at its operations.

The company was adjudged Ghana’s Best Performer in Environmental Management at the fourth Ghana Mining Industry Awards organised by the Ghana Chamber of Mines.

The Ghana Mining Industry Awards are organised annually by the Chamber of Mines to honour outstanding achievements and excellence by mining companies in the country.

The company was awarded for advancing environmental management programmes and observing the highest environmental standards in its operations. This year marks the second consecutive win for the company after jointly winning with Chirano Goldmine last year.

Newmont Ghana’s Ahafo mine was also adjudged joint runners up in the same category this year.

“Environmental stewardship is key to our operations and we are glad that our efforts are yielding good results so far. At Newmont Ghana, our employees and business partners abide by standards that protect both human health and the environment in which we operate,” said Alwyn Pretorius, Regional Senior Vice President, Newmont Africa.

Reforestation and Biodiversity Offset Commitments

The Akyem mine has committed to a reforestation programme as part of its environmental impact assessment to replace by three-fold, portions of the Ajenjua Bepo forest impacted by the mine's operations. Last year, a memorandum of understanding was signed with the forestry commission to commence the second phase of the reforestation programme.

When all is done, the mine is expected to replenish 317 hectares of degraded forest. Additionally, Akyem is committed to undertaking a Biodiversity offset project at a site to be determined in conjunction with the Forestry Commission.

Land Reclamation

Newmont Ghana’s Akyem and Ahafo mines have adopted a concurrent reclamation approach which ensures the progressive restoration of already mined areas to a usable condition for the communities. Newmont Ghana has committed publicly to report on all reclamation target achievements.

Industry leader in sustainability

The award re-affirms Newmont’s position as the industry leader in sustainability. In September this year, its parent company, Newmont Mining Corporation was for the third consecutive year, named the mining industry’s leader globally in sustainability by the Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI – World).

“We will continue to serve as catalysts for local economic development and lead the industry in environmental stewardship,” Mr. Pretorius added.