Anglo American is advancing with the development of a tailings filtration plant for its Minas-Rio project, a significant initiative that will reduce up to 85% of tailings from being released into the dam. The project represents a major investment of approximately R$5 billion and is set to enhance environmental sustainability and ensure the continuity of the iron ore operation.
The new facility, located in Conceição do Mato Dentro, Minas Gerais, will utilize vacuum filtration technology to separate and recycle water from the tailings, aligning with Anglo American’s Sustainable Mining Plan and commitment to improving operational efficiency. Project Director Euler Piantino emphasized that the filtration plant will not only extend the dam’s lifespan but also contribute to the overall sustainability of the Minas-Rio project.
Scheduled for completion by the end of 2025, the filtration plant will significantly reduce reliance on the Minas-Rio dam. In addition, Anglo American is exploring technologies to filter 100% of the tailings and repurpose already deposited tailings, with the goal of eventually eliminating the need for a tailings dam.
Anglo American’s sole tailings dam in Brazil, located in Conceição do Mato Dentro and Alvorada de Minas, was constructed using compacted soil fill and the safest downstream raising method. The company ensures that both the dam and containment dikes adhere to the highest engineering standards, with rigorous 24/7 monitoring in place.
