Respect for the environment is central to our approach to sustainable development. Wherever possible we prevent, or otherwise minimize, mitigate and remediate, the harmful affects of our operations on the environment.

In line with our Environment Policy and Associated Standards, we have developed and implemented a number of practical programs covering the management of air quality, ecosystems services, biodiversity, climate change, energy, land, water, waste, and closure. These programs include input from our local communities as well as from experts in these fields.

Kennecott  has studied the orebody and surrounding area to determine the best approach to development with minimal surface disturbance. We have undertaken scientific analysis, economic review, environmental studies, and engagement through a Community Advisory Group. This extensive environmental impact assessment of the Eagle Project included detailed studies in these areas:

• Hydrology
• Geohydrology
• Water Quality
• Meteorology
• Wetland Delineation
• Flora and Fauna
• Cultural Resources

Our company is committed to the conservation of species, their environment, and their habitats. Wildlife studies on the Eagle Project Site were numerous and included locating and identifying birds, amphibians, macroinvertebrates, and mammals including potential threatened and endangered species.

Additionally, the upland and wetland vegetation communities present at the project site have been carefully mapped, and the types of plants and where they occur on the study site have been recorded. Great care has been taken to avoid impacts to wetlands at the mine site. Kennecott conducted archaeological and ethnographic studies to search for evidence of prehistoric use and/or historic Native American use of the area within and adjacent to the proposed mine site. These cultural resource studies found no evidence of archaeological or cultural resources in the mine area other than a couple of old logging camps, which reflect the substantial timbering activities in the area over the past century. This information has also been reviewed by the State Historic Preservation Office and the Office of the State Archaeologist.

Environmental studies will continue throughout the development and operation of the mine to ensure wildlife and its habitats remain vital and healthy.