METHODOLOGY USED IN THE BIODIVERSITY STUDIES WE CONDUCT
The studies we carry out, in collaboration with university institutions and Non-Governmental Organizations, follow a specific methodology to:
- record the most important flora and fauna species through fieldwork;
- identify the high-priority species and habitats;
- determine the key threats and set preservation goals on the basis of a biological assessment of species and habitats;
- determine appropriate management steps and correct rehabilitation practices;
- propose a specific local biodiversity management plan which shall be monitored and evaluated as to its efficacy.
Accordingly, steps are taken to develop local action plans aimed at:
- enhancing the ecological conditions in the area during operations and after their conclusion by means of appropriate management practices, such as impact minimization and use of correct rehabilitation methods for the benefit of biodiversity;
- minimizing losses in biodiversity through the introduction of offsetting measures undertaken in the context of broader environmental initiatives;
- identifying and pursuing broader strategic initiatives through comprehensive approaches with specific goals for the benefit of biodiversity;
- raising environmental awareness among our employees, as well as in the local community and in other local groups of users in the broader extraction area.