Resolving long-term issues related to surface water management and monitoring associated with the Ranger Uranium Mine, Northern Territory, Australia

Abstract

Conflicts between indigenous people and mining companies have occurred in many countries and over many years, with the pressure for mining companies to improve their performance leading to a growth of corporate social responsibility concepts. Energy Resources of Australia and the Gundjeihmi Aboriginal Corporation (representing the Mirarr people) sought to resolve a number of long-standing issues relating to surface water management and monitoring associated with the Ranger Uranium Mine. This article summarises the process adopted and discusses the main factors that underpinned the success of the project.