The resources sector is the cornerstone of Western Australia’s economy - but with such significant activity comes a responsibility to manage environmental impacts carefully.
The Department of Mines, Petroleum and Exploration (DMPE) plays a critical role. As one of WA’s key environmental regulators, DMPE requires that land disturbed by resource sector activities is rehabilitated to ensure the land is safe to humans and fauna, geotechnically stable, non-polluting and capable of sustaining an agreed post-activity land use, with consideration for cultural values and without unacceptable liability to the State.
Effective rehabilitation is critical to achieving responsible resource development in Western Australia and contributes to a sustainable future for the environment, industry and communities alike.
More than just land rehabilitation
Successful rehabilitation goes beyond reshaping land and revegetation. Depending on the accepted option(s) for post activity land-uses, rehabilitation can involve ecosystem recovery to enhance biodiversity and ensuring that water systems and soil remain healthy long after activities have ceased.
In a state as ecologically diverse as WA, rehabilitation is vital for protecting landscapes and native species and supporting other land users that rely on environmental stability.
A shared commitment
Environmental rehabilitation is a shared responsibility between government and industry. The department’s role is to guide, regulate and support this process, ensuring WA’s resource development remains environmentally responsible.
DMPE promotes innovation - supporting the adoption of new technologies and sustainable practices that enhance outcomes.
By investing in effective rehabilitation practices today, WA safeguards its unique environment while ensuring continued economic prosperity for future generations.
The department would like to share some rehabilitation success stories at the upcoming Resource Sector Awards for Excellence. The ceremony will be held on 30 October in Perth.
If you have completed a successful rehabilitation project, send a brief description of the works and photos or video by 1 September to REC.consultation@DMPE.wa.gov.au, for potential inclusion.
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