ALROSA, a global leader in diamond mining, has taken a significant stride towards enhancing its environmental performance and operational efficiency with the successful launch of a state-of-the-art tailings thickening complex. This monumental project, situated at processing facility N12 of the Udachny mining and processing division, represents an investment exceeding RUB 3 billion (approximately USD 40 million, depending on exchange rates at the time of investment), underscoring the company’s unwavering commitment to sustainable practices. The cutting-edge complex is engineered to dramatically reduce water consumption, a critical resource in mining operations, and substantially improve the management and storage efficiency of tailings – the finely ground waste rock material that remains after valuable kimberlite ore has been processed to extract diamonds. This initiative not only minimizes the ecological footprint of diamond extraction but also sets a new benchmark for responsible resource management within the industry.
The core of this innovative infrastructure is a sophisticated system designed for maximum efficiency in water recovery. The tailings thickening complex is comprised of several key components, meticulously integrated to perform its vital function. These include a robust pump system, engineered to manage the substantial volume of tailings slurry; a highly efficient cyclone cluster, which utilizes advanced hydrocyclone technology; and two impressive large tanks, each boasting a diameter of 28 meters, acting as final stages for the thickening process. The operational principle of the complex leverages the powerful natural phenomenon of centrifugal force. As the tailings slurry enters the system, it is subjected to rapid rotation, causing the denser solid particles to be separated from the lighter water. This process effectively extracts the vast majority of the water content, transforming it into high-quality recycled water. This reclaimed water is then meticulously processed and re-introduced into the facility’s operational cycle, drastically reducing the demand for fresh water resources. The remaining material, now in a thickened, more manageable state, is subsequently transferred to the tailings dump. This method marks a significant departure from traditional practices, offering enhanced environmental safeguards and operational benefits.
The implementation of this advanced tailings thickening technology brings about a transformative shift in the overall tailings storage scheme at the Udachny division. Historically, conventional tailings disposal methods often involve large volumes of slurry, requiring extensive land areas for storage and presenting potential long-term environmental challenges. By processing and thickening the tailings, ALROSA is able to deposit a significantly denser, more stable material. This not only reduces the overall volume requiring storage but also inherently improves the stability and safety of the tailings impoundments. Crucially, this strategic overhaul allows for a profound extension of the operational life of the plant’s existing tailings dump. Rather than necessitating the construction of new, environmentally impactful storage facilities, the enhanced efficiency ensures that current infrastructure can serve the division for many more decades. This forward-thinking approach delivers substantial environmental dividends by preserving pristine natural landscapes and minimizing the cumulative footprint of mining operations. Furthermore, it represents a considerable economic advantage, delaying or even eliminating the need for costly new dump construction and associated land acquisition.
Roman Deniskin, the esteemed director of the Udachny mining and processing division, provided insightful commentary on the profound impact of this project. He emphasized, “Tailings thickening makes production significantly more environmentally friendly, effectively reducing by an astounding 85% the amount of fresh water resources consumed by the processing facility.” This statistic alone highlights the monumental scale of the water savings achieved. Mr. Deniskin further elaborated on the specifics, stating, “Previously, our operations required approximately 6,500-7,000 cubic meters of water per hour. Today, with the new complex fully operational, only a mere 1,000 cubic meters per hour of fresh water are required, with the remaining substantial volume replenished entirely with recycled water.” This dramatic reduction underscores ALROSA’s leadership in water stewardship and its commitment to a circular economy model within its operations. Beyond water conservation, the director also highlighted the long-term safety and operational benefits: “At the same time, the placement of thickened tailings using the advanced cone method will allow for the safe and efficient utilization of the existing tailing dump until the year 2066.” The cone method refers to a specific technique of depositing thickened tailings to create a more stable, self-draining deposit, significantly reducing the risk of impoundment failures and extending the safe operational lifespan of the storage facility for decades to come, demonstrating unparalleled long-term environmental planning.
The journey from conceptualization to full operational status for this ambitious project spanned several years, reflecting the intricate planning, engineering, and construction phases involved in such a large-scale industrial undertaking. The significant investments, amounting to approximately RUB 3.3 billion, were meticulously allocated across various stages of development, from initial feasibility studies and design to the procurement of advanced machinery and the extensive civil engineering works required. This multi-year commitment and substantial financial outlay underscore ALROSA’s strategic vision and its deep-seated belief in investing in infrastructure that delivers both environmental responsibility and long-term operational resilience. Such projects are not merely about compliance; they represent a proactive commitment to setting new industry standards for sustainability and efficiency, positioning ALROSA as a frontrunner in responsible resource extraction.
This newly launched complex at Udachny is not an isolated endeavor but rather marks the second project of its kind successfully implemented by ALROSA, showcasing the company’s consistent and evolving strategy for advanced tailings management. The company previously pioneered an alternative method of tailings thickening, employing distinct technological approaches, at processing facility N16 of its Nyurba mining and processing division. While the specific technologies deployed in Udachny and Nyurba may vary, the overarching objective remains identical: to enhance water recovery, reduce the environmental footprint of tailings storage, and improve operational sustainability across all its divisions. This dual implementation strategy demonstrates ALROSA’s adaptive approach to addressing site-specific challenges while maintaining a unified commitment to environmental excellence. Each project provides invaluable experience and insights, continually refining the company’s best practices in waste rock management and water recycling, solidifying its reputation as an innovator in sustainable mining.
ALROSA’s proactive stance extends beyond the immediate benefits of new thickening complexes. The company consistently prioritizes the reduction of environmental impact and mitigates the inherent risks associated with tailing dumps throughout their lifecycle. This holistic approach encompasses not only the operational phase but also the long-term management and eventual closure of these facilities. In line with this overarching environmental strategy, ALROSA is currently developing an extensive project focused on the drainage and subsequent reclamation of the tailings dump situated at processing facility N8 of the Aikhal mining and processing division. Drainage projects are crucial for stabilizing older tailings facilities, preventing potential seepage, and ensuring the long-term integrity of the stored material. Reclamation, on the other hand, involves the comprehensive process of restoring mined land to its natural or economically useful state, including re-vegetation and landscape rehabilitation. This commitment to reclaiming legacy sites further illustrates ALROSA’s dedication to responsible mining at every stage, from initial extraction to post-operational rehabilitation, reinforcing its position as a leader in corporate environmental responsibility within the global diamond industry.
Independent verification of ALROSA’s industry-leading environmental performance comes from a comprehensive research study conducted by PwC in 2019. This authoritative report recognized ALROSA as ranking first among its peers in terms of the sheer volumes of circulating and reused water within its operations. The findings highlighted that in 2019 alone, the volume of water designated for circulation and reuse reached an impressive 4.1 million cubic meters, representing a substantial 55% of the company’s total water consumption. This figure demonstrates a robust internal water management system designed for maximum efficiency. Furthermore, the total aggregated volume of circulating water and water reused across the entire process cycle amounted to an astounding 222.4 million cubic meters. This massive volume underscores the scale of ALROSA’s commitment to water conservation. The PwC study also pointed out a remarkable trend: over a period of just three years, the total volume of circulating water supply across all ALROSA operations experienced an exceptional growth of 40.5%. This consistent and significant increase in water recycling capabilities not only solidifies ALROSA’s reputation as an environmental steward but also positions it at the forefront of sustainable practices in the global mining sector, showcasing tangible progress towards a more circular and resource-efficient operational model. This dedication to advanced water management is a cornerstone of ALROSA’s broader environmental, social, and governance (ESG) strategy, ensuring long-term value creation for stakeholders and a minimal environmental footprint for its precious diamond operations.