Protecting "SFIKIARIS" At Skouries

In the Spring of 2023, pre-construction surveying was carried out by our Environmental Department and, together with local ornithologists, an active Sfikiari nest was identified near our Skouries development project. To avoid physical and visual disturbance to the birds, a wide protection zone was defined and mapped surrounding the site and we suspended activities in the area until the birds finished nesting at the end of August. Our field team frequently visited the nest to monitor the well-being and growth of the two chicks into adulthood. The same diligent approach was applied to protect other active nests, including that of White-backed woodpeckers and Tawny owls.

Hellas Gold is actively implementing its Biodiversity Management Plan at the Kassandra Mines, which includes such provisions for the protection of local flora and fauna, seeks to reduce loss of habitat and ecosystem services, and contains other avoidance, minimization and restoration objectives. Employees and contractors also receive biodiversity training and our Environmental Department has created an accessible bilingual (Greek and English) photographic guide to help identify local flora and fauna, including native plants, small and large mammals, reptiles, amphibians, birds and invertebrates. The goal of this comprehensive and easy-to-use guide is to enable our workforce to learn about local plants and animals and actively participate in their protection.