As with all other natural resource and mineral processing enterprises, our operations generate waste into the atmosphere, into the soil and into the water. We adhere strictly to all environmental laws and recommendations that address such matters as protection of the natural environment, air and water quality, emissions standards and disposal of waste. We not only comply with local regulations but also those set out by the World Bank in its 'Environmental, Health and Safety Guidelines for the Mining Industry'.
Fresnillo's current environmental standards not only comply with local regulations in Mexico but also meet the requirements laid down by the World Bank in its Environmental, Health and Safety Guidelines for the Mining Industry. We also seek to exceed the standards set by Mexico's environment legislation by developing plans, programmes and activities of our own initiation which contribute to preservation of the environment.
Fresnillo has established an environmental management system in respect of its three operating sites which is certified to ISO 14001:2004 standards. This system monitors all envionmental aspects of our operations and specifies the standards to which we should operate. We have also obtained and/or validated Clean Industry Certificates that are granted by the Mexican Federal Environmental Protection Agency (Procuraduria Federal de Protección al Ambiente, or "PROFEPA"). We also align our activities with the United Nations.
Global Compact, which is a global corporate citizenship initiative concerned with building the social legitimacy of business and markets, and adhere to the Code of the International Cyanide Management Institute.
In 2008, Fresnillo allocated approximately MXN8.7 million toward direct investment in funding programmes that specifically focus on the reduction of water and energy consumption, waste management and disposal, atmospheric emissions, reduction of greenhouse gasses, promotion of biodiversity, and fire prevention and control and the safe use of cyanide. The key performance indicators for these programmes are water usage, energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
Cyanide usage
Fresnillo adheres to the Code of the International Cyanide Management Institute. Both Herradura and Ciénega are seeking certification in accordance with that Code. Herradura will obtain certification during 2009 and the certification process has now commenced at Ciénega. The principles impacts arising from the Group's use of cyanide and the mitigating actions being implemented in response are described in the above image.
