Water is one of the most critical resources in both mining operations and the ecosystems that surround them. At PT. Anugrah Neo Energy Materials (Neo Energy), we understand the delicate balance between industrial water needs and the protection of vital watershed systems in areas like Morowali, where our operations are based. As stewards of the environment, we are committed to upholding stringent water management standards to ensure the sustainability of both our business and the natural world.
Understanding the Watershed’s Role
Watersheds are more than just sources of water; they are intricate ecological systems that support biodiversity, agriculture, and local communities. In Eastern Indonesia, particularly in Sulawesi, rivers and streams that originate from mountainous terrain are crucial lifelines for both the ecosystem and the people who depend on them. Recognizing this, Neo Energy adopts a water-conscious approach that places environmental responsibility at the core of its operational framework.
Our Water Management Strategy
Mining and processing activities often require large volumes of water, especially in laterite ore processing. However, Neo Energy ensures that every drop is managed responsibly. Our strategy is built upon three key pillars:
- Minimization: Reducing the amount of water used in our processes through efficient technology and closed-loop systems.
- Treatment and Reuse: Implementing water treatment facilities to allow for the recycling and safe reuse of process water.
- Protection: Ensuring that no contaminated water leaves our site untreated, and protecting local water bodies from sedimentation and chemical runoff.
We are also exploring passive treatment systems such as constructed wetlands, which naturally clean water through vegetation and microbial activity—an innovative solution that aligns with our green mining vision.
Regulatory Compliance and Beyond
Neo Energy strictly complies with Indonesian water discharge and usage regulations as mandated by the Ministry of Environment and Forestry (KLHK) and regional authorities. In addition to national standards, our operations align with international best practices and ESG frameworks. We believe that exceeding compliance is essential to building trust with communities and global stakeholders alike.
Engaging Communities in Water Stewardship
Our responsibility does not end within our fences. We actively engage local communities and stakeholders through socialization and training on watershed preservation and water hygiene. As part of our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs, Neo Energy supports water infrastructure projects in surrounding villages—ranging from clean water access to the rehabilitation of degraded waterways.
Looking Ahead
Water will remain a defining issue for the mining industry, particularly in tropical regions where rainfall patterns and runoff need to be carefully managed. Neo Energy’s long-term vision includes integrating renewable-powered water treatment systems and investing in hydrological studies to understand how our activities interact with the local watershed. Our commitment is not just to efficient water use, but to becoming guardians of the watershed—protecting the vital ecosystems that support life and livelihoods around us.
References:
- Ministry of Environment and Forestry, Indonesia (KLHK)
- Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards
- International Finance Corporation (IFC) Performance Standards on Environmental and Social Sustainability
- PT. Anugrah Neo Energy Materials Sustainability Vision (neoenergy.co.id)
