The construction and operation of the surface facilities of the Project will generate dust from the surface facilities that will require dust control measures:

• Dust generated from loading and unloading of materials or product;
• Truck movements (particularly if over unsealed roads) during construction;
• Coal stockpiles; and
• Transport of coal on conveyors, transfer stations and locomotives proposed for product transport.

Local meteorology (which includes the wind speed and direction and stability classes to some extent) also has a role in determining the potential for dust to be generated from the site and transported to surrounding residences or landowners. The potential impacts on air quality will depend on the amount of dust generated from the site which in turn depends on factors such as the volume and size of stockpiles, moisture content, vehicle movements and local meteorology. The assessed potential impacts will then have appropriate control measures developed to ensure that community air quality and amenity standards are complied with.

To assess the air quality effects of the project after the development of these control measures, predicted dust deposition and concentration levels that will be generated at the surface facilities have been compared with recognised air quality criteria by a qualified air quality specialist.