IQmining.cz Conference dealt not only with OKD PERSPective

PLZEŇ – More efficient utilization of mineral resources, reducing environmental impacts of the mining and plans regarding a new utilization of areas impacted by the mining. Those were the main topics discussed at IQmining.cz, the mining organizations’ conference, organized by Montanex  under the Czech Mining Authority auspices and with supports from OKD, which was the main partner of this event. OKD sent a large delegation there, led by specialized Chief Officers Leo Bayer, Radim Tabášek and Jane Matula and Directors of all the mines.

“The conference subtitle is the Mining in European Union Environment. It expresses an idea that our companies are ready to apply innovations from the other countries, and at the same time, our companies themselves have something to offer,” said Ivo Pěgřímek, Chairman, Czech Mining Authority. Another topic was the utilization of alternative energy resources and mining expansion possibilities.

“One of the possibilities consists in a future utilization of spent nuclear fuel. However, there are still no technologies available to do that. Experts still continue to work on their research. It is exactly the science that should help in seeking new fuels,” said Vladimír Tošovský, Minister of Industry and Trade of the Czech Republic, who also arrived in Plzeň. He also mentioned the State Energy Concept, whose draft also takes into account the Frenštát Mine coal reserves.

Three lectures presented by the OKD representatives also deserved attention of the full hall’s audience. Leo Bayer, Chief Operating Officer of OKD assessed the positive development of occupational safety after the new technologies were introduced; Jan Matula, Chief Engineering Officer presented the POP 2010 Project and corporate strategy for the 21^st century; and Radim Tabášek, Chief Human Resources Officer pointed out specific cases when the mining activity does not always entail just a danger to the environment.

(mh, vs)