Noranda's magnesium business: committed to sustainable development

摘要

Magnesium production is ramping up at Noranda's Magnola plant in Danville, Quebec. When it reaches full production of 63,000 tonnes/y the plant will be the world's largest producer. The raw material is a mining residue located next to the plant, above ground and in sufficient quantity to supply the plant for hundreds of years. New technology was developed to meet stringent environmental, health and safety criteria, with the objective of having a plant with no significant adverse environmental impact. Environmental systems and equipment represent over $70 million of the total investment of $920 million. The project has created new jobs, stimulated development of new and existing suppliers and injected new vitality into the Asbestos region of Quebec. Magnesium demand growth is fuelled by efforts to reduce motor vehicle weight. Magnesium recovered from mining residues will be used to reduce vehicle weight, fuel consumption and tailpipe emissions, generating significant social, economic and environmental benefits.