SD2011 - Mackay

Around 200 delegates attended the 2011 Sustainable Development Conference in Mackay.

The SD2011 Conference Organising Committee focussed on developing a diverse and comprehensive program which would be thought provoking, highlight new practices and create opportunities for networking and ongoing discussion. From the feedback we have received, SD2011 meet these objectives.

Many of the speakers this year spoke of the challenges to be faced by our industry to ensure that the industry is keeping pace with community expectations. Speakers highlighted that in order to meet these challenges the industry will need to be innovative and that it will not only need to apply existing knowledge in new ways but develop new knowledge. Delegates were provided with some great examples of partnering for regional socio-economic development in the Pilbara; rehabilitation strategies for land improvement; the sharing of infrastructure through private and public sector partnerships and the role of innovation and technology in assisting us to “do more with less”.

Delegates attending SD2011 can view the presentations from the Conference by visiting the Conference eSATCHEL. (A user name and password has been sent to you under separate cover).

SD2012 - Asia Pacific Conference

2012 will be a significant year for the industry. Not only is it 20 years since the original World Summit on SD in Rio de Janiero, but it is also 10 years since the Global Mining Initiative Conference in Toronto.

Accordingly, SD2012 will focus on the industry’s 10 Principles of Sustainable Development and seek to showcase leading industry practice in giving effect to these goals. Given the significance of this anniversary, the extent to which the industry has shifted its approach over the intervening decade, and the increasing activity of Australian mining companies in the region, SD2O12 will be an Asia Pacific event to be held in Bangkok, Thailand in November.

Further information on the Conference will be available in early January. Should you wish to register interest in attending SD2012 or would like to learn more about Sponsorship opportunities, please contact Margie Whitrow at margie.whitrow@minerals.org.au