Ardea and importantly the Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) with whom it deals all operate to ensure Environmental, Social and (Corporate) Governance (ESG) considerations are at the forefront of the way in which the Company does business and assesses societal impact. All project designs and work practices are predicated on ensuring the Company minimises greenhouse gas emission per tonne of nickel equivalent production. In doing so, the Company can ensure responsible sourcing of critical mineral supply, through sustainable and ethical production.
Environmental
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Responsible sourcing of materials, through mechanisms such as mandatory reporting of CO₂ footprints for all batteries sold is essential. Traceability is also being implemented with raw materials used in batteries that must be procured according to OECD guidelines for sustainable sourcing. These important considerations are an essential part of the feasibility study work Ardea is undertaking on the KNP, notably through its FBICRC membership.
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All project development is predicated on minimising carbon emissions and being able to contribute towards achieving the State of Western Australia’s aspiration of net zero emissions by 2050. The proposed Goongarrie Hub process has been modified for CO₂ mitigation in the neutralisation through introducing an Atmospheric Leach (AL) circuit.
Social
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Ardea enjoys strong support from the communities in which we operate, primarily the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder and the Shire of Menzies, and has a Native Title Agreement in place for development of the Goongarrie Hub.
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At the conclusion of the 24 June 2021 Board meeting and in subsequent Board communication, agreement was reached to establish an education fund to support indigenous students within the communities within which Ardea operates. An annual funding commitment will be dedicated to this cause, which will be independently managed by Kalgoorlie Secretarial Services.
The fund is still being established, but an initial grant to Noah Hinkley has been approved to help support his dream of education and basketball in the USA. An agreement was signed between Noah and Ardea on 16 July 2021.
Other local community support initiatives are being considered and will be implemented in the future.
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The Ardea Team are the Company’s most important asset and comprise over 31% female participation, all in key management roles. The Company is a strong advocate for gender equality and fair representation for all community groups. All personnel and their families are offered complimentary support by a ‘wellbeing’ service provider.
Governance
Ardea have a strong board and management team committed to strengthening and formalising its ESG protocols and policies.