18 September 2023
In an era marked by a growing awareness of the importance of the environment, companies must make every effort to meet these demands. This is especially true in Indonesia, where approximately 62% of the population is made up of millennials and Generation Z, who are highly concerned about the importance of environmental protection. One aspect of this effort is the management of hazardous waste (B3 waste).
According to Stevi Thomas C, Director of External Relations at PT Trimegah Bangun Persada (TBP, the parent company of the Harita Group), like any other industry, every industry generates waste. This waste, Stevi explains, includes leftovers from production processes that have no economic value.
"Similarly, in mining and downstream activities, TBP generates both hazardous (B3) and non-hazardous waste," Stevi explained during a recent discussion with several national media executives on Obi Island, North Maluku, where the integrated company is located.
Stevi mentioned that the company is committed to minimizing the negative impact of the waste it generates to avoid disturbing the local area. Efforts include implementing the Reduce-Reuse-Recycle (3R) initiative to minimize the amount of waste generated.
"Based on government permits and standards for waste management, the residual materials from the processing of nickel saprolite and limonite do not contain hazardous chemicals," he emphasized.
In short, Stevi continued, TBP uses the residual materials from the processing of saprolite nickel ore, such as nickel slag mixed with coal ash, to produce valuable building materials. These materials are used in the construction industry, including products such as pavers, bricks and other precast concrete products. They are also used as raw material replacements in ready-mix concrete production and as aggregate replacements in road construction.
"The results are remarkable. Their strength exceeds that of standard bricks. Even nails cannot penetrate them," said an employee who accompanied the journalists to inspect the use of bricks and pavers in houses.
Residual materials from saprolite nickel processing plants are used as construction materials in industry, while some are used in former mining areas. Similarly, residues from limonite nickel processing and refining facilities are disposed of as solid waste in designated dry pile areas.
"The use of former mining areas sets an example in the mineral industry," said Rico Windy Albert, Head of Technical Support at HJF (Halmahera Jaya Feronikel) and HPALA (Halmahera Persada Lygend), subsidiaries of TBP.
Stevi emphasized that this is in line with the company's vision to optimize resource value and provide the best contribution to shareholders, stakeholders and the nation.
"We are committed to sustainable mining and downstream operations while actively participating in environmental protection, social responsibility and corporate governance," he affirmed.
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