Supporting Solidcore Resources with the Ertis POX Project ESIA

Solidcore Resources is developing the Ertis Pressure Oxidation (POX) Project in the Pavlodar Region of Kazakhstan.

Challenge

The project represents Kazakhstan’s first large-scale, full-cycle pressure oxidation facility and is a strategically important investment designed to expand domestic mineral processing capacity, support higher-value production and strengthen the long-term competitiveness of the country’s mining sector.
Given the scale and significance of the project, Solidcore sought to demonstrate alignment with international environmental and social standards while supporting engagement with local communities, regulators and potential lenders. An independent Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) was required to provide a transparent assessment of the Project’s environmental and social risks and opportunities and to support access to international project financing.

Solution

SLR was appointed as the lead independent environmental and social consultant for the preparation of the international ESIA for the Ertis POX Project. SLR’s role included delivering the ESIA in alignment with international good practice and relevant lender requirements, including the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) Environmental and Social Requirements and the Equator Principles.

Working closely with Solidcore Resources and specialist partners, SLR undertook a comprehensive programme of environmental and social studies, including:

• Environmental and social scoping studies
• Multi-disciplinary baseline data collection and analysis
• Environmental and Social Impact Assessment across a wide range of topics
• Human rights and supply chain risk screening;
• Stakeholder engagement and consultation support;
• Development of environmental and social management and monitoring measures; and
• Preparation of disclosure-ready ESIA documentation suitable for international lenders and investors.

Recognising the regional importance of the project, particular consideration was given to community engagement, socio-economic impacts and the opportunities the project could deliver for the Pavlodar Region. SLR supported Solidcore in assessing both potential project impacts and wider development benefits associated with investment, employment and infrastructure.

Impact

The ESIA provided Solidcore with an independently prepared assessment of the project’s environmental and social performance and demonstrated the company’s commitment to responsible development and international ESG standards.

The assessment also supported the project’s financing journey. Following completion of the ESIA process, Solidcore announced the securing of US$600 million in financing for the construction of the Ertis POX Project, including funding from the EBRD and a syndicate of international commercial banks.

Through its involvement, SLR helped establish a robust environmental and social framework for the project, reducing uncertainty for investors and stakeholders, supporting informed decision making, and helping to position the Ertis POX Project as a benchmark for responsible mining and metallurgical development in Kazakhstan.

“We highly value the unique experience of SLR and SGS teams and are confident that in collaboration with them we will be able to develop approaches and ESG-standards ensuring that the new facility meets good international industry practice.”

Solidcore Resources