Boliden granted environmental permit at the Aitik Mine

The Environmental Court announced that Boliden has been granted a permit for the expansion of the Aitik mine from the current annual production of 18 million tonnes to 36 million tonnes.

Already in October 2007, the Environmental Court ruled that the planned expansion is permissible and granted Boliden permit to commence certain construction work. Today’s ruling means that Boliden can now continue the expansion of the Aitik mine as planned.

The permit stipulates conditions for air and water emissions, noise and other environmental impact, among other things. It also includes requirements regarding remediation as well as economic guarantees for remediation costs totalling SEK 660 million. The Environmental Court has essentially accepted Boliden’s proposed conditions.

The expansion of the Aitik mine entails an investment of approximately SEK 5.2 billion. Ore production capacity will increase to 33 million tonnes in 2010 and reach full capacity in 2014.

Boliden is one of the leading mining and smelting companies in Europe with operations in Sweden, Finland, Norway and Ireland. Boliden’s main products are copper, zinc, lead and gold and silver. Exploration and recycling of metals are also important within the company.