Reviews confirm no contamination from Hydro’s Alunorte alumina plant

An internal task force and Brazilian environmental consultancy SGW Services have found no indication or evidence of contamination to nearby local communities from Alunorte alumina refinery in Brazil, Norsk Hydro reported on Monday 9 April.

“Both reports confirm our previous statements that there was no overflow from the bauxite residue deposit areas, as well as no indication or evidence of contamination to nearby local communities from Alunorte as a result of the heavy rainfall in February,” said President and CEO, Svein Richard Brandtzæg.

“We have initiated several measures to further enhance Alunorte’s operational standards, including water treatment capacity, emergency preparedness plans and maintenance. We will also strengthen community engagement to ensure that we contribute to sustainable development in Barcarena in line with Hydro’s CSR Strategy,” he said.

Following heavy rainfall in February, an internal task force and Brazilian environmental consultancy SGW Services have performed reviews of Alunorte. The reviews include the operation of the bauxite residue deposits, water and effluent systems, and potential impact on the external environment.

The alumina plant is the world’s largest alumina refinery, with around 2,000 direct employees and an annual nameplate capacity of 6.3 million tonnes. Hydro owns 92.1 percent of Alunorte. Alunorte alumina refinery t is currently operating at 50 per cent capacity.