SLR review IQ restoration teaching unit
Environmental firm helps drive improvements in restoration-related education in the minerals industry
ENVIRONMENTAL firm SLR Consulting Ltd have recently carried out a review of the Institute of Quarrying’s Restoration of Mineral Workings Unit, with the aim of updating teaching materials in line with latest best practice.
The written material, which includes photographs and other illustrations, supports the Mineral Extractives programmes offered by the University of Derby Corporate.
A multi-disciplinary team from SLR contributed to the project, with technical input from landscape architecture, engineering, ecology, and planning and permitting specialists.
SLR’s principal landscape architect, Simon Higson, who has acted as guest lecturer at the University of Derby Corporate for the past four years, with his next restoration session taking place this month, said: ‘This has been a rewarding project for SLR, bringing together both research and practical experience in this specialist field.
‘Support from the quarry manager is vital to the success of any restoration scheme, as he or she will drive the day-to-day operations and works on site. This annual guest lecture provides us with the opportunity to speak directly to managers away from their daily commercial pressures, allowing us to share and discuss their own experiences.’
Mark Osbaldeston, manager of the Centre for Mineral Products Professional Development at the University of Derby Corporate, said: ‘It is always a pleasure to have a lecture from Simon because his extensive expertise in a range of restoration projects adds significant value to our programmes.’
The Restoration of Mineral Workings is one of the advanced mineral extraction units offered as part of the standard knowledge-based qualifications for the sector. The extractives programmes are of the blended online learning type designed for operational managers and those aspiring to these roles.
Julian Smallshaw, head of educational development for the Institute of Quarrying, said: ‘We are delighted with SLR’s review of the restoration unit and are committed to being at the forefront of restoration best practice.’
The Institute of Quarrying is the international professional body for quarrying, construction materials and the related extractive and processing industries.
