The South African Coal Ash Association (SACAA) has joined surface mining and quarrying industry association Aspasa.
SACAA says that becoming a member of Aspasa (Aggregate and Sand Producers of South Africa) is part of its ongoing effort to reach out to potential users of coal ash products.
While the industries derive their products through different means, SACAA says they share many of the same outlets and in some instances coal ash can be used as a substitute for aggregates in the manufacturing of concrete and construction of roads and other structures. In addition, the machinery used to process, load and transport the two products are similar with similar legislation and challenges.
“With its advanced programmes in safety, health and environment, as well as long standing relationships with Government and all other industry stakeholders it makes sense to join a progressive association like Aspasa, which acts with the best interests of its members and the overall industry at heart," says SACAA general manager Mark Hunter.
He adds that Aspasa will extend its services in legal compliance, health and safety, technical, engineering, transport, government liaison, environmental, HR, training, public relations, as well as internal and international liaison, to its members.
Aspasa was recognised by peers from the Global Aggregates Information Network (GAIN), representing global quarrying industry associations, as a global leader in the promotion of safer, more sustainable operations in compliance with some of the world’s strictest mining legislation.
In the surface mining industry, Aspasa, which previously represented only sand and aggregate quarrying companies, says that it has had to diversify to include all types of surface mines to accommodate growing calls for assistance and representation from diverse operations who had not previously enjoyed all the benefits broad industry representation.
Aspasa director Nico Pienaar says the association wants to play an active role engaging all stakeholders from the ash producers, to current users and resellers, as well as promoting the use of ash broadly to all levels of industry.
“We welcome members of SACAA and encourage them to make use of our services and engage with us to find ways to promote the safe and responsible use of coal ash,” he adds.
