Staff Writer
Green Metals Refining Ltd has secured environmental clearance for its planned manganese refinery and sulphuric acid plant at Farm 58 in Walvis Bay, paving the way for further project development.
The ministry of environment, forestry and tourism (MEFT) approved the Environmental Clearance Certificate (ECC) early in October following a review of the projects’ Environmental Impact Assessment and Environmental Management Plan, the company announced on 14 October.
The approval is a key step towards preparing the projects for construction and reaching a Final Investment Decision (FID), although it does not mean construction has started.
Green Metals Refining (GMR), a UK-registered company focused on producing battery-grade manganese chemicals, said the projects aim to strengthen regional supply chains for the green energy transition while supporting Namibia’s mining, processing and industrial sectors.
The company expects the developments to contribute to economic growth, skills development and long-term employment opportunities.
GMR said it intends to minimise emissions, waste and water consumption, while prioritising local employment, training and supplier development.
It also committed to continued engagement with communities, regulators and other interested and affected parties.
The environmental assessment process involved independent environmental specialists led by Alexandra Speiser of ASEC, alongside the company and the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB).
The parties engaged with communities, relevant ministries and regulatory authorities during the process.
GMR founder and chief executive officer Derk Hartman said the approval had reduced project risk and supported the company’s industrial development plans in Namibia.
The company said it is continuing work on both projects. It is progressing the tender process to appoint a feasibility study engineer for the sulphuric acid plant and has completed advanced metallurgical testwork for the manganese refinery’s pre-feasibility study.
The developments are being pursued through three wholly owned Namibian subsidiaries.
Green Metals Refining Namibia is responsible for developing the manganese refinery, which will use existing feedstock supply chains and logistics infrastructure.
Kudu Chemicals is developing the sulphuric acid plant to supply the refinery and serve demand from third-party customers.
Foxtrot Industrial Developments has been established to provide infrastructure and shared services for the projects and potentially other clients.
