TSUMEB – Dundee Precious Metals Tsumeb recently commissioned a new General Waste Management Facility. The groundbreaking project is described as the first of its kind in the region, as it focuses on segregating and sorting at the source to minimise landfill waste.

The facility, which was approved by the Environmental Commissioner, and designed and constructed in accordance with South African standards, is classified as a Class B Landfill. 

Landfill management systems are classified based on the risk associated with the waste being disposed of or landfilled. Class A landfill is for high-risk waste, whilst Class B is for moderate-risk waste, with Class C and Class D landfills purposed for low-risk waste and inert waste, respectively. 

The design and operation philosophy of the facility aligns with the principles of integrated waste management and waste management hierarchy, with a strong emphasis on encouraging waste segregation and sorting at source, as well as reducing waste sent to the landfill. 

This is aimed at diverting waste from landfills and into utilisation where possible. 

“Waste” collected for recycling includes cartons, paper, cans, glass bottles, plastic containers and plastic bags. 

Ultimately, only biodegradable general or domestic waste will be landfilled at this facility.

The Integrated Waste Management Facility comprises several key components, including an administration office block, a recyclable processing facility equipped with a balling machine and storage compartment, an interim storage facility for waste destined for onsite treatment or offsite disposal, a bioremediation pad for blending and treatment of soil, a disposal cell, a water management system and a vehicle wash bay.   “This investment further demonstrates Dundee’s commitment to be a responsible corporate citizen and steward of the environment”, said Zebra Kasete, Dundee’s vice president and managing director. 

Speaking at the commissioning of the facility, environmental commissioner Timoteus Mufeti acknowledged Dundee’s leadership in integrated waste management in the region.  This is because the facility sets a new standard for environmentally conscious waste management practices, with Mufeti urging other organisations, especially within the mining industry, to follow suit. 

He further stated that embracing integrated waste management practices does not only protect the environment but also contributes to the well-being of our
communities.