Boliden's ambition when reclaiming mining areas is to restore them so that they become part of the surrounding landscape once more. The first step involves creating pilot areas where we encourage a particular type of biological diversity or monitor the areas in which new biotopes have been created. It also includes re-vegetation with grass, flowers and other plants.
The Simonstown area near the Tara mine, for example, is currently being restored by planting a kilometre-long hedge. New hedgerow planting using native plants is part of the reclamation work at the Simonstown borrow pit. Overall the project will involve the re-establishment of 2,600 metres of hedgerows.
During the early stages of development the plants and shrubs must be protected from livestock and other animals, hence the wire fencing. Boliden works in partnership with a number of local authorities to make use of the sewage sludge from the municipal treatment works. Sewage sludge is a useful resource both in re-vegetation and in reclamation, primarily in that it fertilises the soil, retains moisture and protects against erosion. Boliden is also working in partnership with various universities to develop its reclamation methodology and a number of research projects are currently being carried out within the framework of our operations.