Ramboll has carried out an environmental impact assessment (EIA) procedure for the possible expansion of the Siilinjärvi mine.

Yara is planning to expand mining operations in Siilinjärvi and has launched related studies (Tule Project). Mining operations under the current permit are possible in Siilinjärvi until approximately 2035. The continuation of operations after this will require new ore reserves and additional volume in the waste rock and tailings disposal areas. The expansion would enable Yara's operations to continue in Siilinjärvi until the 2060s.

As part of the studies, Ramboll prepared an Environmental Impact Assessment program (11/2021–08/2022) and an assessment report (10/2022–08/2024) for the expansion of the phosphate mine. In the EIA procedure, a total of four different implementation options and the so-called zero option (the project not being implemented) were evaluated.

EIA Procedure Increases Regional Cooperation and Participation

The EIA procedure produced information for decision-making and permit processes concerning the project, as well as for regional cooperation and information needs. The project used Ramboll's Digi-EIA service, which was used to summarize the results of the extensive impact assessment for the general public.

The EIA assessment included modeling, nature studies, stakeholder surveys, negotiations with the authorities, and meetings with local people. The results were presented at a public event, and the project was also presented to the authorities, the monitoring group, and the Siilinjärvi municipal council. More than 40 experts from different fields at Ramboll were involved in this project.

Impact Assessments Help in Further Planning and Decision-Making for the Expansion Project

The impact assessments produced during the EIA procedure will be utilized in the further planning of the project and in subsequent permit procedures. Following the reasoned conclusion (issued on 28 November 2024), Yara will start further planning for the project, and the permit processes are expected to start between 2025 and 2028.

Continuing mining operations would mean the preservation of jobs and the continuation of tax revenue. In terms of attractiveness, the continuation of a large employer in Siilinjärvi would be positive. In addition, the continuation of operations would have a positive impact on national security of supply. The Siilinjärvi mine is the only phosphate mine in the EU, which means that the mineral to be utilized is also considered a critical raw material in the EU.

For further details contact Johanna Korkiakoski, Team Leader, EIA.