Leadership in ESG EQR has taken significant strides in leading the Australian junior mining sector by developing and sharing its Sustainability (ESG) Program. It is committed to the ongoing maturation of this program, recognising that sustainability is an evolving journey that requires constant dedication. Environmental Responsibility Throughout the year, EQR partnered with Cairns based firm, Natural Resource Assessments (NRA) Pty Ltd, to conduct various component studies and oversee the design and upgrade of existing infrastructure to meet global sustainability standards as it moved to recommence open-pit mining at the Andy White open pit. Putting Sustainability and ESG commitments into action has been achieved through the Company’s continued partnership with Turner & Townsend JukesTodd (‘TTJT’), the EQR Management Team and its ESG Committee. Comprehensive Studies and Ongoing Commitments Several critical studies were successfully conducted to support the Company’s open-cut mining plans and project risk mitigation. Some of the key activities that remain ongoing include: − Noise, Air & Vibration Studies: Minimising local community disruption. − Water Management Plan Update: Responsible water usage and conservation. − Hydrogeological Study: New data from monitoring wells for better groundwater understanding. − Blast Management Plan: Safe and efficient blasting. − Waste Rock & Tailings Management Plan: Responsible disposal and management. − Flora and Fauna Studies: Preserving local biodiversity. − Water Engineering Works: Upgrade Mt Carbine water storage facilities. − Stakeholder Engagement Program: Based on a comprehensive heritage site review around Mt Carbine. − Progressive Rehabilitation and Closure Plan (PRCP) Plan: Outlining EQR’s proposed rehabilitation strategy to authorities, governments, and communities. A Focus on Community and Social Responsibility The Company’s sustainability commitment extends beyond compliance, emphasising responsible resource development benefiting the environment and society. As EQR’s ESG program matures, it acknowledges its community impact and has initiated partnerships in 2023 to offer meaningful support. EQR Sustainability and ESG Journey Embedding Sustainability and ESG into Our Foundations At EQR, management have proactively integrated sustainability and ESG principles into the core of its operations. The deliberate approach of maturation through the 2023 year has ensured alignment with existing sustainability frameworks and scope to evolve with future reporting requirements. EQR’s journey began with a name change reflecting its core values and has since achieved strategic milestones, partnerships, and initiatives showcasing its commitment to sustainability. Explore the timeline below to witness this transformation. Key Milestones: Sustainability and ESG Journey Timeline 2019: EQR adopts a new name that reflects its core values. 2021: A dedicated ESG focus becomes integral to its operations. 2021: Engagement with TTJT to establish the ESG Strategy baseline. 2021 Q2: Engagement with ARTEH on Scope 1 & 2 Emissions Tracking tool development. 2021 Q4: Stakeholder sentiment survey conducted. 2022 Q1: Adoption of United Nations (‘UN’) Sustainable Development Goals (‘SDGs’). 2022 Q1: Aligning ESG priorities with stakeholder sentiments and the Company values. 2022 Q2: Adoption of TTJT ESG Categorisation Framework. 2022 Q3: Frist quarterly ESG Committee Meeting held. 2022 Q4: Developed/reviewed policies. Operating and Financial Review continued 18 EQ Resources Limited Annual Report 2023
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjE2NDg3