Canadian mining company GoviEx Uranium states in its latest ‘Sustainability 2024’ report that it is taking a precautionary approach to environment and social risks, devising strategies that effectively mitigate or minimise risks related to environmental, social and governance (ESG).

As the company develops the Muntanga uranium mine, in Zambia, towards construction within the next one to two years, GoviEx says climate-related risks and opportunities have influenced the company’s strategy and financial planning from the earliest stages of development.

GoviEx is already allocating resources for renewable-energy infrastructure in its projects in Zambia and Niger, to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, lower greenhouse-gas emissions and enhance energy security.

The company is also factoring climate-related risks into its risk management process.

“While we are still in the pre-mining phase, we adjust our designs in a precautionary manner to minimize environmental and social impacts and ensure compliance with local as well as international standards.

“On the social front, we have also instituted a stakeholder engagement plan, fostering an open dialogue and pinpointing potential social concerns within the communities where we operate,” GoviEx explains.

In regions such as Zambia, this feedback integrates into the company’s Relocation Action Plan, which aims to ensure that its project design not only mitigates adverse impacts but also benefits the local community.

GoviEx’s current Scope 1 and 2 emissions are limited to vehicle and drill fuel consumption during exploration. However, as projects evolve, the company will look at ways to minimise its carbon footprint, including by using solar energy.

For now, diesel is mostly used to power the Muntanga site as it is not connected to the grid. Once it is connected in future, Zambia’s electricity grid largely comprises hydroelectric power.

GoviEx has an environmental policy, as well as a socioeconomic development policy, which are used to define its environmental and social objectives guiding the Muntanga project.

The company has already undertaken various initiatives to support communities surrounding its Madaouela site, in Niger, including the installation of a windmill providing drinking water and two full solar systems that power water wells.

At Muntanga, GoviEx has hosted a series of community support initiatives, including local training on the benefits of using non-chemical fertilisers for farmers. Additionally, the company maintains water infrastructure that supplies the Sikoongo Village and Dambilo community, in Zambia.

The company remains committed to responsible business conduct and upholding the highest standards of ethics, integrity and responsibility in its business dealings, GoviEx states.

GoviEx holds regular training sessions with its workforce and on site contractors on the implementation of ESG commitments.

“We believe in fostering a culture where ethical decision-making is at the forefront, seeking to ensure that we not only meet but exceed the expectations of our stakeholders and the communities we serve.”