Forthcoming events

Description

A two hour technical branch event, courtesy of IQ and South East Quarries & Landfill Group (SEQLG)

Presentation title:

Quarry Restoration, Landscape and Biodiversity

Synopsis:

Joint presentation with the SEQLG. The presentation centres around two case studies on Biodiversity Action Plans from a Midlands hardstone quarry and a Peak District limestone operation. These were written around the millennium and progress has been recorded at intervals ever since. Practical examples of pond and reed bed creation, scree slopes, rollover and bench restoration, wildflower meadows, heathland and woodland management are all explored.

Wet and dry sand and gravel operations are also briefly covered. The flora and fauna which have benefited are shown and the concepts of habitat re-creation and targeted species are explained. Many practical examples are shown and rules of thumb given. Mistakes were made and are learnt from and the importance of maintenance and management of the projects emphasised.

Speaker Bio:

Andy Littler, is a geologist by degree, an IQ member, published author and a chartered mineral processing engineer specialising in silica sands. He joined the industry in 1976 as a trainee with ARC (Hanson). Having worked in a variety of fields, operations, commercial, concrete products and at director level with Tarmac, he took his final role as MD Longcliffe Quarries. Since the 80’s he has promoted quality restoration and biodiversity increase in operational and closed mineral sites, a subject he finds both fascinating and rewarding.

Andy, with others, wrote the first two quarry Biodiversity Action Plans around 2000. A keen but very amateur naturalist he has been a trustee of two county wildlife trusts.
He believes that whilst the industry has achieved some excellent restoration to new areas for wildlife conservation, performance is nevertheless patchy and site aftercare and training of staff are issues. Andy is available for advice and presentations on a gratis basis.

Presentation title:

Refresh on the importance of sustainability

Synopsis:

The basics of sustainability, including,
* Why our industry needs to focus on circular thinking as opposed to linear
* How proactive sustainability supports our businesses’ corporate social responsibilities
* Why our work to maintain, develop and improve habitats and biodiversity is so critical to the future of our way of life

Speaker Bio: 

Neil Peacock, is the General Manager of MP Skills, a Graduate Member of IOSH and MPQC Level 7 qualified in Health, Safety and Environmental Management for the extractives industry.
As the key lecturer on environmental sustainability training, via IEMA, through MP Skills, it is one of his passions and a subject area that he believes is vital for our industry and our future as individuals.
Since starting in the industry in 1999 with Aggregate Industries, Neil has worked in several disciplines, including production management.
Throughout his career, he has identified and implemented many key improvements to support the environment along with chairing carbon reduction committees and relevant input to management.
Neil is happy to be contacted by any business needing support, training, and assessment within this key subject.

Speaker(s)

Address