Staff Writer
Zimplats Holdings (Zimplats) recorded a 60% decline in carbon dioxide emissions during the year ended June 30, 2024, primarily due to the increased availability and utilisation of hydropower.
The country’s largest platinum miner’s emission reduction marks significant strides in reducing its carbon footprint and mitigating climate change impacts.
The Australia Stock Exchange-listed miner’s sulfur dioxide emissions were reduced by 14% during the year, attributed to a decline in sulfur content within the ore being processed.
However, the company has faced challenges in water management. A drop in recycled water usage from 44% to 39% was attributed to the El Niño-induced drought. To compensate, Zimplats increased water abstraction from dams and underground sources by 15%.
The miner said construction of its 35 megawatts (MW) solar plant, the first phase of the four-phase project is in progress at 86% completion.
Zimplats, which is currently on an expansion drive, is increasing investments in renewable energy as part of its US$1.8 billion investment into the country.
During the year, the miner spent US$36 million on the implementation of the 35MW solar power plant project against a budget of US$37 million.
“The project has now entered the testing and commissioning stage and is scheduled for grid connection in the first quarter of FY2025. Subsequent phases will increase total solar power generation to 185MW,” Zimplats said in its financials.
Zimplats’ efforts to reduce emissions and invest in renewable energy align with global sustainability goals and could set a precedent for other mining companies operating in Zimbabwe and the region.
The platinum miner said it rehabilitated 9.1 hectares of its open pit working areas during the period, which is in line with the previous reporting period.
Zimplats said a further 1.2 hectares area of the tailings storage facilities was revegetated as part of the concurrent rehabilitation programme underway at the operations.
