Sampyo Resources Development, a subsidiary of Sampyo Cement, announced on August 20 that it is undertaking terrain and vegetation restoration activities at its limestone quarry in Samcheok, Gangwon Province.
This initiative is not only aimed at stabilizing the terrain of the mined area but also focuses on restoring vegetation using native plants to create a habitat for wildlife as part of an ecological restoration project.
The company plans to continue quarry development while sequentially restoring areas that have completed mining, emphasizing a dual approach to minimize environmental impact.
In October 2023, Sampyo Resources Development received approval from Samcheok City for its quarry restoration plan, establishing a 2.5-hectare (25,454 square meters) ecological restoration pilot area in the Gyogok-ri district of Geundeok-myeon.
From 2024 to 2025, the company completed infrastructure development and eco-friendly drainage construction, with plans to finish planting this year.
During the planting phase, particular attention was given to selecting tree species. Sampyo Resources Development evaluated the feasibility of transplanting, planting, and seeding native plants around the restoration site to ensure stable vegetation establishment in the poor soil conditions of the quarry. Based on this assessment, they selected 10 suitable tree species and 20,000 saplings for planting.
After planting, the company will conduct regular monitoring to check the establishment and growth of vegetation and the stability of the restored area, ensuring the ecosystem is securely established.
In addition to vegetation restoration, the company is also working to preserve the habitat of the endangered flying squirrel, a legally protected species, and to enhance biodiversity. Since 2021, Sampyo Resources Development has been engaged in habitat restoration activities for the flying squirrel as part of its 'One Company, One Endangered Species Habitat Restoration Project.'
Through field surveys and ongoing monitoring, the company has analyzed the potential habitat and movement routes of the flying squirrel, using scientific predictive models to identify areas where habitat expansion is expected and key movement paths. Based on this data, they are implementing systematic restoration activities, including the installation of artificial nests to improve habitat conditions.
In a habitat survey conducted last year, traces of flying squirrels were confirmed at 75 locations. The results validated habitat models in areas with high occurrence frequency, and in April, 50 artificial nests were installed in predicted habitats to strengthen the habitat base.
Sampyo Resources Development plans to enhance its ecological restoration model and expand biodiversity conservation activities through scientific monitoring and restoration efforts.
A company representative stated, "To reduce the environmental impact that may arise during the quarry development process, we have been sequentially restoring areas where mining has ended while managing wildlife habitats. We will ensure the planting work is completed without delay this year and continue monitoring to stabilize the ecological environment post-restoration."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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