Making extraction compatible with the management of biodiversity

Challenge the practice is addressing: Mineral extraction is often seen to be incompatible with the management of biodiversity. This case study of Lafarge-Holcim highlights the Biodiversity Indicator and Reporting System_BIRS which is a tool which assesses the areas and aspects of interest from a biodiversity point of view. For example, the tool would show the nests of vulnerable species on a map. The tool is meant to be used by mining/quarry management technicians.

Concrete practice to achieve the expected goal: First, observations regarding the different species and habitats existing in the impacted area have to be identified and marked in an Excel sheet. The map includes the following: (1) Operational area; (2) Rehabilitated area; (3) Inactive slopes; (4) Forests / tree plantations; (5) Scrub; (6) Pasture; (7) Bare rock outcrop; (8) Ruderal; (9) Crops; (10) Wetlands; (11) Rivers and streams; (12) Lakes and ponds; (13) Coastal zone, cliffs; (14) Salinas. The tool then assesses the ecological importance of each factor/species/area. It can also be used to identify threats such as erosion, fire pollutions et cetera.

Expected impact/goal of the practice: The aim of the practice is to provide a concrete tool to help extractives industry representatives to assess threats and impacts for the local/regional biodiversity.

Who is the target user group of the practice/intervention or implementing the practice/intervention? Mining experts, especially mining/quarry management technicians.