An energetic army of volunteers and Executives from the ANSA McAL Group restored 10 acres of the Abel Clay Quarry site in Longdenville, Chaguanas, as part of the Abel Clay Quarry Rehabilitation Project. The clay mine is approximately 208 acres in size and of the 76 acres that have been mined, 49 acres have been restored thus far including the 10 additional acres planted.
The purpose of the rehabilitation project, which started in 2013, is to replant and reclaim the excavation site that was utilised in Abel Clay operation process. The hope is to mitigate the environmental impact of quarrying and promote ecological sustainability. It also forms part of compliance requirements of Abel for a Certificate of Environmental Clearance for Mining and Mining Licences.
The recolonisation of various local species of trees in the project included jamun, cashew, Caribbean pine, coconut, and mango.
Speaking at the restoration project site, Christian Llanos, Sector Head - Construction said, “Reversing the impact of quarrying on the environment is a fundamental aspect of our operations and it is our responsibility to preserve biodiversity and promote the sustainable use of land and ecosystems.”
Also part of the volunteer team in the replanting exercise in Longdenville were Mrs. Frances Bain-Cumberbatch, Chief Legal and External Affairs Officer, and Ms. Sarah Inglefield, Head of Marketing & Communications.
“This Eco project aligns with ANSA McAL’s sustainability initiatives and showcases an ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and development,” said Mrs. Bain-Cumberbatch. She went on to thank the volunteers for showing their commitment towards assisting in responsible rehabilitation and in reshaping the quarry.
Ms. Michelle Mungal, Marketing Manager at ABS, facilitated all logistical arrangements of the restoration project.
