Westland Mineral Sands Group (WMS) is proud to announce its official membership with the Sustainable Business Council (SBC), further demonstrating its leadership in sustainable practices within the mining industry.
Managing Director Ray Mudgway says at the core of the WMS business is a dedication to maintaining the highest environmental standards, with sustainability being integral to every aspect of its operations.
“We are committed to continuously improving our environmental practices, ensuring that the impact on ecosystems is minimised, and land is rehabilitated for future use.
“Our robust sustainability initiatives focus on best practice environmental management and sustainable investments, and we are actively engaged in initiatives to enhance our ecosystems, protect native flora and fauna, and reduce emissions. Joining the SBC strengthens our commitment to these values.
WMS’ sustainability efforts include ongoing monitoring of native flora and fauna on and around its sites. In collaboration with expert ecologists and hydrologists, the company conducts comprehensive assessments to guide its rehabilitation and restoration programs.
“By progressively rehabilitating mined areas, WMS Group ensures that disturbance is minimised, the landscape is restored, and the land is returned to its previous or improved state.
“The company also takes steps to reduce emissions, including converting its first processing facility to run on electricity sourced from New Zealand’s renewable energy network, saving 500,000 litres of diesel annually. We are also exploring alternatives to diesel-fuelled trucks to reduce its reliance on road transport and minimise emissions,” says Mudgway.
WMS’ dedication to the environment extends to protecting the region’s unique biodiversity, particularly the habitats of the kororā (Little blue penguin) and other local fauna.
“We consulted with experts and used a penguin-tracking dog to ensure that our operations do not disrupt the penguins’ nesting or migration patterns, further exemplifying our role as a guardian of nature. We remain steadfast in our commitment to sustainability, environmental stewardship, and operational excellence, all while contributing positively to the West Coast community,” says Mudgway.
