Annual Report 2010 - Outokumpu

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ficiation and clarification basins all have a long-term effect on the landscape. Tailings basins are landscaped after they
have filled up. The gangue will be used in backfilling the underground workings. The Kemi Mine only uses water (and a
minor amount of flocculant) in its concentration processes as these are based on gravimetric separation. The amount of
water used annually is approximately 0.3 million cubic metres. The noise caused by blasting operations is almost
inaudible, even in the mine area. According to environmental impact assessments performed in 2009, the only significant
effects result from the increased traffic generated by transporting concentrate from the mine to the Tornio ferrochromium
plant. These effects were further mitigated by a new transport road taken into use in 2010, which minimises potential
disturbance to residential areas.
Reductions in emissions
Dust emissions from Outokumpu's operations typically contain small quantities of metals (including iron, chromium and
nickel) which are mainly present in a harmless form. Chromium, for example, is usually found in its trivalent form and not
in the hazardous hexavalent form. In recent years, the Group has supported many studies investigating the effects of
metal emissions on both the environment and human health.
Emissions of nitrogen oxides were on a higher level in 2010 (1 742 tonnes) compared to 2009 (1 254 tonnes) due to
higher levels of production. To minimise emissions, Outokumpu production sites in Avesta, Nyby and Tornio are
employing the latest burner technology and selective catalytic reduction technologies in certain processes.
Continually improved monitoring reduces environmental risks. For example, particle emissions from the steel melting
shop in Tornio have been monitored using a continuous emissions-measurement system since the beginning of 2007.
This more detailed daily emissions data helps immediate detection of potential filter leakages. The primary origin of the
Group's sulphur dioxide emissions is the district heating unit at Tornio Works which is used only occasionally during the
cold winter season.
Recovering heat from furnace gases at the Tornio and Avesta Works also reduces Outokumpu's energy consumption.
Emissions of nitrogen oxides, carbon dioxide and
Outokumpu Annual Report 2010 – Business – Emissions and effluents