A GIS-based exploration initiative to help steer sustainable development

The aim of this project was to build on the traditional GIS-based prospectivity analysis for mineral deposits, and integrate data relevant to environmental, community, and infrastructure development, in order to produce prospectivity maps. This allows target areas to be highlighted based on both geological and sustainability factors, which both have a significant impact on the ability of exploration and mining companies to operate. A pilot project was undertaken in South-East Sulawesi, Indonesia, which clearly highlighted areas that showed both geological potential for orogenic and placer gold mineralization, as well as favourable sustainability. This approach to sustainable exploration potentially de risks investment in exploration and mineral resource development.