ArcelorMittal's Tailings Triumph: MEPR's Momentous Approval
Synopsis:
ArcelorMittal Kryvyi Rih has received approval from Ukraine's Ministry of Environmental Protection and Natural Resources to construct the Map III tailings dump. The new facility will provide additional storage capacity of 29.4 million cubic meters and utilize modern technologies to protect groundwater and soil. The company plans to decommission existing tailings dumps after Map III's commissioning.
Article:
PJSC ArcelorMittal Kryvyi Rih, a full-cycle steelmaking enterprise in Ukraine, has reached a significant milestone in its expansion plans. The company has received an environmental impact assessment conclusion from the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Natural Resources of Ukraine (MEPR) for the construction of the Map III tailings dump. This approval paves the way for ArcelorMittal to proceed with the project, which aims to address the limitations of existing storage facilities.
The Map III tailings dump, with a dam crest elevation of +100.0 m, will provide an additional storage capacity of 29.4 million cubic meters for tailings. The new facility, consisting of five compartments and a guide channel, will be constructed using the advance alluvial method, allowing for simultaneous operation and dam embankment build-up.
While the construction of Map III will result in the emergence of nine fugitive emission sources, ArcelorMittal has plans to mitigate the negative environmental impact of its sludge management practices. Upon the commissioning of Map III and the full implementation of design decisions for the existing Map IV, Myrolyubivka, and Central tailings dumps, the company intends to decommission these older facilities in stages.
One of the key aspects of the Map III project is the utilization of modern technologies that ensure the protection of groundwater and soil during its operation. This commitment to environmental sustainability is a crucial factor in the MEPR's decision to grant approval for the project.
Despite the addition of Map III, the total emissions of pollutants into the atmosphere from the production activities of the tailings dump are estimated to be around 262.5 tons, excluding emissions from mobile sources. This figure highlights ArcelorMittal's efforts to minimize the environmental footprint of its operations.
ArcelorMittal's investment in its tailings management infrastructure is not limited to Map III. The company has allocated approximately $50 million for investments in the Myrolyubivka and Map IV tailings dumps between 2020 and 2024. Additionally, over $15 million has already been invested in the Central tailings dump, with construction currently underway.
Looking ahead, ArcelorMittal Kryvyi Rih has ambitious plans for 2024. Mauro Longobardo, CEO of the company, stated that they aim to increase capacity utilization, targeting 50% for the metallurgical division and the maximum possible level for the mining division.
Conclusion:
The approval granted by the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Natural Resources of Ukraine for the construction of the Map III tailings dump is a significant step forward for ArcelorMittal Kryvyi Rih. This new facility will not only provide much-needed additional storage capacity but also showcase the company's commitment to environmental sustainability through the use of modern technologies. As ArcelorMittal continues to invest in its infrastructure and optimize its operations, it remains a key player in Ukraine's steelmaking industry, contributing to the country's economic growth while prioritizing environmental responsibility.
Bron Steelguru (via email)