29 May 2024
Operating along the coastal stretch of Obi Island in North Maluku, Harita Nickel has been recognized with a Green Rating by CNBC Indonesia, a testament to the company's long-term commitment to preserving both marine and terrestrial ecosystems surrounding its nickel mining operations.
Since 2010, Harita Nickel has routinely monitored water quality near Kawasi Village, which borders the company’s industrial zone. Independent studies conducted by the Bogor Agricultural Institute and Khairun University in Ternate confirm that seawater in the area remains healthy and capable of sustaining marine life. “Obi waters are fertile due to high chlorophyll content. Marine productivity remains intact,” said Prof. Dr. M. Janib Achmad of Khairun University. Similarly, Prof. Dr. Inneke Rumengan of Sam Ratulangi University observed stable marine biodiversity from 2015 through 2021.
To ensure oceanic health, Harita Nickel has invested in an array of monitoring technologies including survey vessels, CTD sensors, multiparameter gauges, and remotely operated underwater vehicles (ROVs), essential tools for accessing aquatic zones beyond the reach of divers. The company has also developed artificial coral reefs made from nickel slag, aimed at enhancing fish populations and bolstering the livelihoods of local fishermen.
“To date, we have deployed 1,696 artificial reef units around our operational waters. Marine environmental protection has always been our top priority,” said Windy Prayogo, Environmental Marine Compliance Manager at Harita Nickel.
Research from the two universities also identified key marine species such as thresher sharks, blacktip reef sharks, and the endangered Napoleon wrasse. Local fisherman Saidi Jouronga dismissed allegations of marine pollution in the area. “It’s not true that Kawasi waters are ‘dirty’ or lifeless. I was born here and fish here daily. There are still plenty of fish, and they’re biting,” he said.
On land, Harita Nickel monitors biodiversity across a 5,000-hectare mining area. In 2023 alone, the company documented more than 290 plant and animal species, including 29 endemic to the region. Notably, 30% of its industrial area has been designated as green space and wildlife corridors.
In recognition of these efforts, Harita Nickel received the Green Rating at CNBC Indonesia’s 2024 Green Economic Forum, an award honoring companies that integrate sustainability into operations, from energy efficiency and ecological conservation to environmentally friendly innovation. Check out Harita Nickel's work in CNBC Indonesia Green Ratings through this social media content.
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