Published by Australian Academy of Science
Activity 5 | Prospect or suspect – uranium mining in Australia

Factors to consider before opening a new mine

Assume that a mining company wants to open up a new uranium mine in Kakadu National Park. The company has employed an independent assessor to write a detailed report on all the points that need to be addressed before a new mine can be opened.

• List all the points that an independent assessor would need to investigate. Then describe how the assessor might obtain the information needed for each point listed.

Teachers notes

Factors that need to be taken into account before a new mine is opened include:

• environmental impact;
• sacred sites;
• disposal of wastes;
• transport of products;
• associated commercial development and influx of people;
• how the profits of the mine will be distributed;
• Aboriginal input to decision-making;
• scientific input to decision-making;
• site restoration.