BHP has welcomed the approval, with Western Australian iron-ore asset president, Edgar Basto, saying that the framework would enable BHP and the state regulators to focus on effectively planning and managing environmental impacts at a regional level, and with a longer-term focus for the benefit of future generations. While any future iron-ore projects in the Pilbara would still be subject to environmental approvals, the strategic proposal aimed to improve the efficiency of future assessments, streamlining the approvals process, reducing red tape, and increasing investment confidence. "The state government's approval of the strategic proposal provides BHP with confidence to plan for the next 100 years of development in Western Australia, and with that flows substantial investment, jobs and other benefits to the local economy. "The strategic proposal outlines a potential for up to 11 more iron-ore projects in the Pilbara over the next 50 to 100 years."