Q. How do you manage greenhouse gas emissions?
Carbon dioxide is produced when carbon in the anode combines with the oxygen in aluminium oxide during smelting. Perfluorocarbons (PFCs) are greenhouse gases that are produced in the smelting process during brief upset conditions known as “anode effects”. Anode effects are prevented and minimized by use of technological and operational controls such as sophisticated computer controls, changes to alumina feeding techniques and employee training.
Q. Is there any wastewater or other liquids that will be discharged in the smelting process? How are they treated or managed?
Smelting is a dry process and it does not use water or produce wastewater. Fresh water from Bintulu will be used for cooling the metal casting machines. This cooling water will be recycled but a small amount of salty water will be removed from the recycling system and either reused on site, or released into the ocean. There are no other liquid discharges.
Q. What is the cost of energy as a percentage of total production cost?
This depends on the plant, but it could be around 20 per cent to 25 per cent of the total production cost.
Q. Where is the most likely location for a new township?
The location of a new township to support the Samalajau Industrial Park will be decided by the Sarawak State Planning Unit together with the Bintulu Development Authority.
Q. Will there be opportunities for local contractors to work on the construction of the SALCO smelter?
Ensuring local communities and local contractors benefit from SALCO activities will be strong focus during the feasibility study. This is an essential part of making sure the SALCO smelter makes a sustainable, long term contribution to the local community and the economy.