Evion Group NL (ASX:EVG) has taken another step toward developing the Maniry Graphite Project in Madagascar by submitting the Environmental & Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) to the national regulator, Office National pour l’Environnement (ONE) for approval.
Approval from Madagascar’s National Office for the Environment will pave the way for Evion to finalise project funding for the project.
Potential impacts reviewed
The independent assessment conducted by Resolve Consulting, comprehensively reviewed the potential environmental and social impacts of the proposed development and operational activities associated with Maniry.
Evion managing director Tom Revy said: “Evion will work with Resolve and the ONE over coming months to ensure all the supporting information about Maniry is provided in a timely and transparent manner.
“At the same time, Evion will continue to hold formal community discussions with villagers around Maniry, detailing the company’s development plans and activities and encouraging feedback from local stakeholders.”
On completion of the official evaluation of the ONE assessment, including public consultation, Evion will be provided with a global environmental permit subject to conditions established by ONE, a key licence which will pave the way for construction to start.
Graphite for batteries
Maniry will produce graphite for the production of lithium batteries, in the process creating jobs and training opportunities for the people of Maniry and district for many years.
Prior to submission to the ONE, the Mines Ministry in Madagascar required a number of project-related documents to be reviewed, including the ESIA, capital cost breakdown and an understanding of the development plans for the project.
All supplementary and supporting documentation required as part of the ESIA has now been completed, approved and stamped by the Mines Ministry.
Evion is committed to developing and operating the project in compliance with best-practice guidelines as aligned with IFC Performance Standards on environmental and social sustainability. These have been stipulated in the assessment.