Waste Management

MMG take a life-of-asset approach to waste management. From the earliest stages of planning through to closure, we aim to minimise waste, reuse materials wherever possible, and ensure safe disposal. Our focus is simple: prevent waste where we can, reduce what we generate, and find new ways to recycle and repurpose materials. This approach helps protect the environment, supports community expectations, and contributes to a more circular economy.

Mining produces large volumes of waste rock and tailings. These materials need careful management to ensure they remain safe and stable over time. We design waste storage areas with long-term performance in mind, including shaping landforms to blend with the surrounding landscape, controlling water flow to prevent erosion, and establishing vegetation to stabilise surfaces. Where materials have the potential to react with water and create environmental risks, we manage them through controlled placement and protective layers. These steps help us reduce impacts now and ensure landforms meet closure objectives in the future.

Tailings, the fine material left after minerals are processed, are stored in purpose-built facilities designed to meet strict safety and environmental standards. Each facility is engineered for local conditions, with features that manage water, maintain stability, and allow for progressive rehabilitation. We reduce the amount of water in tailings and recycle process water back into operations. This reduces our reliance on freshwater sources and supports water security for sites and surrounding communities.

Alongside mineral waste, operations generate other waste streams such as packaging, scrap metal, oils, batteries and food waste. MMG separate these materials at the source to make recycling easier and safer. Hazardous items are stored in secure areas and handled by licensed contractors, while general waste and recyclables are managed through on-site facilities. Regular reviews help identify opportunities to cut waste and improve recycling rates across all sites.

MMG look for ways to turn waste into value. This includes reusing waste rock for construction and rehabilitation, exploring options to reprocess tailings for additional metal recovery, and partnering with recyclers to expand opportunities for plastics, metals and paper. We are trialling composting for food waste at some sites, creating organic material that can be used in rehabilitation or community projects. By thinking differently about waste, we can reduce our footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Good waste management depends on everyday actions. MMG provide training for employees and contractors on waste segregation, spill response and safe handling. Clear signage, colour-coded bins and regular feedback make it easy for teams to do the right thing. Contractors are held to the same standards, with audits and engagement to ensure compliance and continuous improvement.

Waste management doesn’t stop at the mine gate. MMG works with local governments, recyclers and community groups to improve regional recycling capacity and share knowledge. We listen to community feedback and respond to concerns—whether that means improving road cleanliness, reducing litter or ensuring safe transport of materials. By working together, we can deliver better outcomes for people and the environment.