EPA rejects two mining proposals in WA

Two proposals to mine iron ore in Western Australia have been rejected by the Environmental Protection Authority, which says the projects will cause irreversible environmental impacts.

Mineral Resources Limited's Jackson 5 and Bungalbin East Iron Ore Project wants to operate two new mines, about 100 kilometres north of Southern Cross in the Wheatbelt, on the Helena-Aurora Range.

Sinosteel Midwest Corporation's Blue Hills Mungada East Expansion proposes to expand its hematite mining operations on the Mungada Ridge, 66 kilometres north-east of Perenjori, in the Mid West region.

It includes a mine pit, waste rock dump, processing infrastructure area, and haul and access roads.

But the EPA says both projects are "environmentally unacceptable" and has recommended against their approval.

EPA chairman Tom Hatton said the companies were planning to mine band iron formations, which were among the oldest landforms on Earth, and provided special habitats for plants, animals and ecological communities.

"These proposals would significantly and permanently impact the environmental integrity of distinctive formations supporting some of the highest biodiversity and social values in their respective regions," he said.

"As high points in the landscape, they are cooler and wetter than the surrounding plains, acting as terrestrial island habitats for unique and rare plants and animals."

Each assessment involved site visits, public consultation and analysis of potential environmental impacts.

The environment minister will now make a final decision on the projects.