We recognize that maintenance of environmental quality is vital to the Company’s existence, progress, and continued development. We are committed to maintain high environmental standards limited only by technical and economic feasibility. We will take positive action to protect the safety of our workers, conserve natural resources, and minimize the impact of our activities on the environment through diligent application of appropriate technology and responsible conduct at all stages of exploration, mine development, mining, mineral processing, decommissioning, and reclamation.

The purpose of our environmental procedures is to provide a measurable framework for the performance of the Company’s activities in an environmentally responsible manner, ensuring compliance by the Company and its employees with all applicable environmental regulations and commitments.

We are committed to effective environmental stewardship, which is a key element of our ongoing success. We have integrated a strong environmental ethic among our employees and a sound environmental management program with core business functions at all levels, and at all locations throughout the organization.

We carry out comprehensive environmental compliance audits at all of our operations. The facilities are audited against regulatory compliance requirements and Company environmental performance objectives, to assure a high standard of excellence.

The Sigma mining and milling operations are located in close proximity to residential areas of the city of Val d’Or. We have implemented measures to protect the environment so that there is minimal impact on the city and its residents in regard to noise, vibration and dust levels. Blasting mats are used on the upper benches of the open pit to avoid fly-rock. Vibration during blasting is continually monitored by seismographs located in the neighbourhood to ensure that blast induced vibration is kept below an agreed level mandated by the government.

At the San Juan Mine in Peru we are implementing environmental procedures and practices that are consistent with those at our Canadian operations while taking into account local conditions and circumstances.