While nickel is a critical metal in the transition to the zero-carbon economy, the production of it comes with environmental and social impacts.
This was highlighted in a Sustainability Report released this month by nickel mine developer, Horizonte Minerals Plc, as it commences construction of the tier-1 Araguaia nickel project in Brazil.
Jeremy Martin, Chief Executive Officer of Horizonte, commented, “At Horizonte, we understand that value generation is inherently linked with sustainability. Nickel is a critical metal in the clean energy transition with demand growing at an unprecedented pace. The production of nickel, however, comes with environmental and social impacts. To balance these, in 2021 we commenced technical studies and programs that will help us to design controls so that wherever possible, we manage these risks whilst enhancing the outcomes of the many benefits that our operations will bring.”
The Sustainability Report is Horizonte’s third such disclosure and was prepared in accordance with the Global Reporting Initiative Standards ‘Core’ option.
Highlighting the importance of sound ESG credentials when talking to potential investors, Martin added, “Our comprehensive approach to sustainability has been an instrumental component of our success in securing project financing from a suite of leading international banks and investors. This week we marked a major milestone with the commencement of earthworks at Araguaia.”
Highlights of the report include the distribution of almost BRL$38M of economic value during this pre-production year in Brazil, highlighting the significance of Horizonte’s Araguaia project to local and state economic development.
The company also implemented a leading-practice integrated management system for environment, safety, health, and communities’ management and have reported 100% conformance to statutory and compliance obligations, including successful completion of major baseline monitoring campaigns for the Araguaia project.
Martin commented, “Sound sustainability performance and transparent disclosure are key to success and must be pursued to achieve our goals. As we advance the construction of Araguaia our systems for governance and reporting will also evolve, as key tools for delivering confidence and building strong and respectful relationships with our stakeholders.”
For further details on the report please visit Horizonte Publishes 2021 Sustainability Report (horizonteminerals.com)
