10 February 2024
Two experts, Professor M. Zaki Mubarok from ITB's Faculty of Metallurgical Engineering and Professor Agus Jatnika Effendi from ITB's Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering, paid a visit to PT Trimegah Bangun Persada Tbk (NCKL) or Harita Nickel on Obi Island. Their visit on Sunday (04/02/2024) challenged common misperceptions about mining's environmental impact. This collaboration between academia and industry players showcased the possibility of balancing industrial activities with environmental conservation, offering a new perspective on mining practices.
ITB academics were invited to observe mining operations and the first low-grade nickel ore processing in Indonesia. The visit involved going over the mining site, smelting facility, reclamation efforts, and Kawasi Village, the nearest community to the company's operations.
During the visit, the academics praised Harita Nickel for its innovative and efficient operations and acknowledged its positive impact on local economic development. This challenges the idea that all mining is automatically harmful to the environment.
"It was very impressive to witness Harita Nickel's operations on Obi Island firsthand. By looking at innovation and efficiency at every stage, we believe that Harita Nickel has a significant role in developing the nickel mining industry in Indonesia," said Prof. Zaki.
In addition to touring the company's sites, the two ITB professors also shared their expertise in a session attended by leaders from various departments at Harita Nickel.
During the visit, Prof. Zaki Mubarok explained about the progress in processing laterite nickel ore and metallurgical technologies in Indonesia. Prof. Agus Jatnika Effendi focused on environmental remediation and highlighted the company's responsibility to the local ecosystem.
"After seeing the company's reclamation efforts, we really appreciate Harita Nickel’s commitment to assessing the environmental impact of their operations," Prof. Agus remarked.
He added that Harita Nickel’s proactive approach to reclamation, even before completing mining, is exemplary. “Harita Nickel demonstrates how to navigate operational efficiency with environmental responsibility, hopefully inspiring other companies in the industry," he concluded
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