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uniform, goggles, helmet and ear plugs. Visual wave artifact Vale

ECOTERAKO (ECOmaterial TERAk sorowaKO)

In PT Vale Indonesia Tbk's operational activities, several by-products are generated, one of which is slag. Slag is a by-product of the nickel ore smelting process and is classified as Non-B3 waste according to Republic of Indonesia Government Regulation Number 22 of 2021 regarding the Implementation of Environmental Protection and Management.

Traditionally, the produced slag is promptly disposed of and placed in designated disposal facilities. In the long run, this approach consumes significant space and resources. Furthermore, the presence of slag can potentially lead to land degradation and water pollution if not managed responsibly and efficiently.

Based on this background, PT Vale Indonesia initiated the ECOTERAKO program. ECOTERACO is a groundbreaking initiative that transforms mine road aggregates by incorporating nickel slag, a material formerly classified as industrial waste. The utilization of nickel slag as a substitute for natural stone in the production of road aggregates offers numerous benefits, including a reduction in environmental impacts, the preservation of ecosystems, and a decrease in carbon emissions and project costs. Beyond addressing environmental concerns, this sustainable approach fosters a new perspective on resource management. This program exemplifies a circular economy approach that minimizes waste and optimizes resource utilization.

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Impact on Environmental Aspects of ESG:

  • In 2022, there was a reduction in nickel slag deposits resulting from the use of slag as road aggregate by 3,422,475.20 tonnes.

Foto: Vale Indonesia

  • SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

    • 12.2.1. Material Footprint

Principle 8.1 In project design, operation and de-commissioning, implement cost-effective measures for the recovery, re-use or recycling of energy, natural resources, and materials.

The ECOTeraKo program has been registered with a patent from the competent authority with number P00202004831 on patent registration date 30 June 2020 and announcement on 19 January 2021 with announcement number 2021/PID/00350 with the title Concrete Composition containing Nickel Mining Slag Aggregate.

Foto: Vale Indonesia