Water is more than just a necessity—it is a shared resource that requires careful management, especially in industries like mining where its use is essential yet can impact surrounding ecosystems. At PT. Anugrah Neo Energy Materials (Neo Energy), we believe that sustainability begins with respecting the environment, and that includes transforming how we view and use water. One of our proudest innovations is our commitment to harvesting and recycling rainwater as a critical step toward circular water usage in our operations.
Why Rainwater Harvesting Matters in Mining
Indonesia, particularly Sulawesi where our mining and processing activities are centered, is blessed with a tropical climate and significant annual rainfall. However, traditional mining operations often rely heavily on groundwater or surface water sources, placing added pressure on local water supplies and communities. Neo Energy chooses a different path.
Instead of viewing rain as a challenge to be drained away, we see it as a valuable asset. By capturing rainwater, we reduce our dependence on external water sources, especially in remote areas where infrastructure is limited. This not only ensures water availability for our daily operations but also aligns with our broader commitment to resource efficiency and climate resilience.
How the System Works
At our Morowali site, Neo Energy has implemented rainwater collection systems across key operational zones. Rooftop harvesting structures, permeable ground catchments, and drainage systems are all designed to channel rainwater into large-capacity storage tanks. Once collected, the water undergoes filtration and treatment to remove particulates and other impurities before being used in several non-potable applications:
- Dust suppression on haul roads and processing areas
- Equipment washing and ore handling processes
- Emergency water supply and fire safety systems
By doing this, we significantly reduce the volume of freshwater needed, while also preventing runoff that could contribute to soil erosion or contamination downstream.
Water Recycling and Reuse
In addition to rain harvesting, Neo Energy has also designed water recycling loops within our operational workflow. Process water used in ore beneficiation is treated and recirculated to be reused multiple times. This closed-loop system minimizes wastewater discharge, lowers operating costs, and supports long-term water stewardship goals.
We are currently piloting advanced water treatment technologies, such as sedimentation tanks with natural filtration and chemical-free purification processes, which we plan to scale across our future downstream operations.
A Model for Sustainable Mining
Neo Energy’s approach to water is guided by national environmental regulations from the Ministry of Environment and Forestry (KLHK) and informed by international sustainability frameworks like the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) and the Equator Principles. Our rainwater and water recycling strategies not only meet but aim to exceed these standards.
We believe that innovation in water management is not a “nice-to-have,” but a necessity for any mining company with a long-term vision. Turning rain into a reliable operational resource is just one way Neo Energy is setting new benchmarks for responsible mining in Indonesia.
References:
- PT. Anugrah Neo Energy Materials Sustainability Framework (neoenergy.co.id)
- Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards
- KLHK Indonesia Environmental Guidelines
- IFC Environmental, Health, and Safety Guidelines for Mining
