GAC launches its 2024 ecological rehabilitation programme

Kamsar, Tuesday, July 16, 2024 – Guinea Alumina Corporation (GAC) announced today the launch of its ecological rehabilitation programme for 2024. This initiative, characterized by a substantial local community engagement, aims to generate economic prospects across the entire value chain. The programme is specifically dedicated to the restoration of plant biodiversity across 100 hectares of land located on plateaus 20 and 26 in the Tanènè Centre and Dambantchian districts within the rural commune of Tanènè. The primary focus will be on reintroducing and cultivating indigenous plant species.

At GAC, we prioritize the restoration of biodiversity as a cornerstone of our environmental strategy. In this context, the Programme highlights our commitment to promoting sustainable economic growth while upholding strict environmental conservation standards. The rehabilitation of areas impacted by our operations is a key component of GAC’s adherence to the International Finance Corporation’s (IFC) Performance Standard 6 (PS6), which advocates for biodiversity conservation and sustainable management of living natural resources.

The involvement of local communities is crucial at every stage of the process, as it generates significant ecological and economic benefits. To date, over 80,000 seedlings have been procured from nurseries in Diarabaka, Sangaredi, and Belikindy. “Purchasing these seedlings represents the most effective strategy for us to support communities in commercializing their production, while simultaneously fostering their active engagement in impactful rehabilitation activities,” stated Isabelle Teboul, Director of Community Relations, CSR and Environment at GAC. Furthermore, labourers from the neighbouring communities are recruited and compensated for their efforts in planting the seedlings.

From 2022 to 2023, 239.6 hectares have been rehabilitated at the Tinguilinta mine. Moussa Fina Mara, Mine Director, stated, “Our mining operations are bolstered by comprehensive rehabilitation and biodiversity restoration initiatives. Preserving usable land for future generations is paramount to us. Our proactive approach begins pre-mining, focusing on the restoration and conservation of fertile land, crucial for reintroducing local species.”

GAC reaffirms its commitment to environmental conservation. Through collaboration with local communities, authorities, and environmental organizations, the company is spearheading innovative initiatives aimed at biodiversity conservation and sustainable development. These efforts aim to foster sustainable ecological and economic benefits for future generations.