E3 is not going to make exploration any easier, but it will make it more environmentally and socially responsible. The program, formally known as Environmental Excellence in Exploration, is an Internet-based resource that aims to improve the practices of mineral exploration companies in all matters pertaining to the environmental and society.
Initiated by a group of mining companies several years ago and developed by the Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada (PDAC), E3 is available by visiting www.e3mining.com.
At the moment, E3 exists only in English, but French, Spanish and Portuguese translations are planned. The PDAC is seeking pledges from exploration companies that want to see E3 in one or more of these languages. The PDAC estimates that a contribution of between US$500 and US$1,500 from 15-25 companies would be sufficient to translate E3 into another language. Contributing companies would be acknowledged on the E3 web site. Any company interested in participating in this program should e-mail Philip Bousquet at the PDAC at pbousquet@pdac.com.
E3’s main purpose is to provide field guidelines for good professional practices in environmental management and community engagement during the course of exploration programs. Its users are mostly exploration field personnel and managers, but it is also used by other stakeholders, such as non-governmental organizations, government agencies, and local communities that may be affected by exploration. In this way, it should be a facilitator of dialogue between the various stakeholders, leading to a better understanding between the interested parties.
E3 is used by more than 830 registered users in 46 countries. Described as a “living” database, it is expected to grow with time. The E3 web site represents what are considered to be the best environmental and social guidelines for carrying out exploration at this time. It is hoped that all stakeholders will contribute to the improvement of the web site by supplying the PDAC with relevant case histories of environmental and social projects associated with exploration. In this way, E3 can continually be improved and serve the diverse stakeholders in mineral exploration projects.
— The author is vice-president of exploration with Iamgold and chairman of the E3 committee.
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