The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) of Western Australia has announced that it has recommended the approval of Australian mining company BHP Billiton’s strategic mining proposal for the Pilbara region, which sets out BHP’s operations in the region for the next 50-100 years, including new iron ore mines, the expansion of existing mines and associated infrastructure.
Robert Harvey, the deputy chairman of the EPA, stated that the authority has given the strategic proposal careful consideration over the past six years, including impacts on fauna, flora, surface and ground water, air quality and social surrounds.
According to the EPA, the Western Australian environment minister will make the final decision on the proposal.