Print6.1.3 Environment - Economic
We have already identified relevant questions to characterize these two dimensions. A consideration of the intersection, defining the viable region, requires consideration of more specific and technical questions, beyond those already posed. Unlike the considerations of the bearable and equitable regions, the viable region is completely definable by the engineering and science of environmental protection.
We, as engineers, define the engineering steps necessary to protect the environment, in terms of air and water quality, and also in terms of mine closure considerations. Moreover, our reclamation plan can be designed and its costs calculated. Thus, we are able to quantify the costs of protecting the environment. We can even choose to take proactive measures above and beyond those required by any regulations. Of course, that will entail an additional cost, and at some point, the cost of such measures could sink the project. Hence, using the name viable to define the intersection is quite appropriate; and if the cost to protect the environment is too great, the project will no longer be viable.