Participants in the first open discussion of the development plan for mineral resources used in the construction industry, which took place in the Ministry of the Environment on 19 February, emphasised the need to define state interests in the use of construction mineral resources and noted the importance of increased acceptance of environmental requirements in mining. The aim of the development plan to be prepared is to define the procedure and volume of mining based first and foremost on state interests and to identify the best possible mining regions. However, decreasing negative environmental impact significantly in the mining and use of mineral resources should also be taken into consideration. For this purpose, mining technologies and equipment used should be as modern as possible.
Research necessary for the preparation of the development plan is conducted by private limited company OÜ Inseneribüroo Steiger, and the better part of it should be completed by May. Preparation of the development plan is lead by the Ministry of the Environment, forming a working group for this purpose. Strategic environmental impact assessment of the development plan will be conducted simultaneously with preparation of the plan.
The development plan will be prepared for 2010-2020 and will cover mining and use of limestone, dolomite, crystalline quarry stone, sand, gravel and clay throughout Estonia. The Ministry of the Environment will organise open discussions to include different stakeholders (representatives of environmental organisations, local governments and companies related to mineral resources used in the construction industry, etc.). The draft development plan should be completed by the end of the year and will be presented to the Government of the Republic.
Additional information: (19/02/2009) |
