Focus Graphite ticks air quality requirements for Lac Knife graphite project
Focus Graphite has completed an air quality assessment for its Lac Knife graphite project in Québec.
The study was completed by engineering and environmental consultancy WSP Canada under the supervision of IOS Geosciences, as part of the ongoing environmental studies supporting the advancement of Lac Knife towards future permitting and development.
The air quality assessment evaluated emissions associated with the proposed openpit Lac Knife mine as well as its processing facility, tailings storage facility, stockpiles, haul roads, crushing operations and supporting infrastructure under conservative maximum operating scenarios.
The study evaluated a broad range of potential emissions, including particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, sulphur dioxide, carbon monoxide, crystalline silica and various metals using a detailed atmospheric dispersion model of the project area and surrounding receptors based on five years of meteorological data.
According to WSP’s findings, the modelling results demonstrate that predicted contaminant concentrations remain in compliance with applicable Québec ambient air quality standards and criteria under the assessed operating conditions.
WSP further concluded that all evaluated contaminants met applicable regulatory thresholds. The study also noted that prevailing winds are predominantly directed toward the south-southeast, away from nearby public infrastructure, residences and seasonal fishing cabins.
“The completion of an air quality assessment represents another key component of the broader environmental review process and brings us closer to completing the environmental studies required to support future permitting activities. As these workstreams are completed, Lac Knife continues to be derisked from a technical and environmental perspective and strengthen its position as a strategic North American graphite asset,” says Focus Graphite CEO Dean Hanisch.