Approaches to Cyanide Code Compliance for Tailings Storage Facilities

Abstract This chapter provides alternative options to cyanide destruction circuits for operations seeking compliance with Principle 4 of the International Cyanide Management Code to consider. The chapter describes how an understanding of the ecology of a tailings storage facility can be used to manage risks to wildlife associated with weak-acid dissociable cyanide concentrations above the Code's (Code) limit of 50 mg/L. Collection of the appropriate chemistry and ecological data associated with understanding the risks of a system is summarized, and how this information can then be used to make a cost-effective and informed decision on the most appropriate approach for achieving compliance with the Code is outlined.