By Greentech Lead Europe: Astur Gold, a gold mining
company, has signed a collaboration agreement with Fund for the Protection of
Wild Animals (“FAPAS”), the Asturian NGO which focuses on the
conservation of the Cantabrian mountain ecosystems and wildlife species that
inhabit them. As per the agreement, FAPAS will advise the Company on its
activities relating to the environment, with special emphasis on preservation,
enhancement, and biodiversity values of the area in which the Salave mining
project is planned.
“This agreement opens the possibility for the first
time in Asturias to develop a mining initiative in an environmentally friendly
manner with respect to biodiversity. If it is implemented in the appropriate
manner, and according to the intention of the parties, the relationship should
serve as a template for future initiatives involving mining companies and
environmental organizations,” said Roberto Hartasanchez, president of
FAPAS.
Astur Gold’s policy is to maintain and enhance affected
terrain, marine, and air ecosystems of the area. FAPAS will plan ecological
initiatives to enhance the preservation and recovery of species and vegetation
that support biodiversity and minimize visual impact.
This agreement is the first of several such efforts that
Astur Gold is evaluating with various organizations to supplement the measures
included in the Environmental Impact Study, which is currently being processed
by the General Directorate of Mines of the Principality of Asturias.