Öksüt Mining’s Sustainable Environmental Policy
At Öksüt Mining, we conduct our operations in accordance with the principles of respect for the environment and sustainability. We operate with innovative practices, strong environmental management systems, and a commitment to sustainability to minimize our ecological footprint.
For us, the way we produce is as important as the production itself. We see ourselves as responsible individuals who protect the land, water, and the ecosystems they support in the long term. With this perspective, we meticulously apply national and international standards throughout the exploration, construction, operation, and closure processes. Before implementing our projects, we conduct comprehensive analyses evaluating their environmental and socio-economic impacts. Our approach to environmental responsibility is based on an ecosystem-focused perspective that aims to achieve lasting and positive environmental outcomes in the regions where we operate.
Our standards are not limited to legal requirements; they sometimes exceed the requirements of industry associations such as ICMC. Our site-based environmental management systems (EMS) encompass planned monitoring, engineering controls, and reporting in the areas of water, waste, biodiversity, air quality, energy, and reclamation.
In collaboration with local communities and stakeholders, we continuously improve our natural resource management practices; we take responsibility for environmental protection, combating climate change, and ensuring a sustainable future.
Areas of Focus
Biodiversity
Environmental management is a cornerstone of our responsible mining approach and is integrated into Öksüt Mining’s values. We view the conservation of biodiversity not only as a necessity but also as an integral part of our responsibility to the future. We are taking scientifically based steps to protect the region’s natural heritage and aim to make lasting contributions to local ecosystems. In this context, we conduct regular monitoring and conservation programs; and we collaborate with botanists, wildlife biologists, ornithologists, and local communities.
This endemic species, discovered in our production area, has been confirmed by the Nordic Journal of Botany. Found only in the Develi region, this plant is of great value for both local and global biodiversity.
We support the oak ecosystem through acorn harvesting and planting projects.
Plants in affected areas are being secured in greenhouses and then replanted in suitable habitats.
We provide scientific contributions to seed germination and reforestation studies.
We ensure the survival of endemic species by creating a garden that mimics their natural habitats, and we organize training sessions for our employees and local communities.
Protection of Living Spaces
In our activities, we consider not only species but also their habitats. We regularly monitor plant and animal populations and ensure that degraded areas are restored to nature. Our observations, particularly during bird migration periods, are one of our key practices that support the continuity of the ecosystem.
Our commitment
All these efforts demonstrate that we are not content with merely protecting biodiversity; we are working resolutely to secure the future of ecosystems. At Öksüt Mining, we listen to the voice of nature and take concrete steps to pass it on to future generations.
The Botanical Garden, implemented by Öksüt Mining, has been completed as a pioneering project aiming to contribute to the revitalization of natural habitats and the conservation of endemic species. Becoming a learning and awareness center for our colleagues and the local community, this garden makes a tangible contribution to biodiversity conservation.
The garden’s rock garden and specially designed areas suitable for rocky ecosystems create habitats for the region’s endemic species, while sections prepared with local seeds are used for ecological research, education, and monitoring studies. These areas serve as an important resource for both scientific studies and educational activities, helping visitors to better understand the value of biodiversity.
Our colleagues have the opportunity to learn about endemic species in the region and their roles in the ecosystem through regular training programs. Furthermore, the prepared guidebooks and posters of endemic species placed in our offices support the integration of awareness into daily work life.
The Öksüt Botanical Garden is not just a green space; it also plays a significant role as a living learning space that strengthens the awareness of biodiversity conservation for future generations. This project is a strong demonstration of our company’s commitment to securing the future of ecosystems.
Climate Change Management
At Öksüt Mining, we consider combating climate change as one of our top priorities in our environmental responsibility. We aim to reduce our energy consumption, lower our greenhouse gas emissions, and build a structure resilient to climate risks.
Centerra Gold’s Climate Resilience Plan was completed in 2024. This comprehensive plan serves as a roadmap for taking proactive steps against climate change while strengthening our long-term strategy.
In 2024, 0.28 tons of CO₂e emissions were recorded per unit of gold at the Öksüt site. This result is significantly below the global average of 0.66 tons of CO₂e, demonstrating the carbon efficiency of our operations.
• Our ISO 50001 Energy Management System certification enables us to manage our energy consumption systematically. • With our I-REC certification, we have committed to meeting 100% of the 15,000 MWh of electricity to be consumed throughout 2025 from wind energy. This step will reduce our emissions by 17%. • We aim to further reduce carbon emissions by developing energy efficiency projects specific to our operations.
We regularly monitor our climate-related risks through our Enterprise Risk Management System (ERM):
- Physical risks: Forest fires, drought, extreme weather events, impacts on waste disposal facilities
- Transition risks: Carbon pricing, regulatory changes, reputational risks
By analyzing these risks, we develop a high-level climate resilience strategy.
In all our efforts, we aim to decarbonize our operations step by step and make our energy use more sustainable.
Air Quality
At Öksüt Mining, we implement a comprehensive monitoring and management program to protect and improve air quality. We actively manage our emissions and ensure full compliance with regulatory standards through engineering controls and operational planning.
Air Quality Monitoring
Our mining site and the surrounding villages have 8 strategically located air quality monitoring stations. These stations regularly measure meteorological data, settled dust (TSP), hydrogen cyanide (HCN), and fine particulate matter levels. Samples are analyzed in accredited laboratories to obtain the most up-to-date results. Our teams conduct continuous monitoring to ensure that our operations do not harm human health and ecosystems. Aware of the potential impacts of air pollution, we are committed to full compliance with all legal regulations.
Air Quality Management
Special control measures are implemented in ore stock areas and heavily used roads where dust generation is high. These measures include:
Moistening and covering the dry materials.
Imposing speed limits on vehicles
Regular irrigation of stockpiles
The introduction of chemical suppressants on field roads.
Restrictions on the use of off-road vehicles.
2024 Water Footprint
According to our 2024 Water Footprint data, processing one ton of ore required 58 liters of fresh water. 74% of the water used originated from rainwater, and the total pollution load was measured at 2,204 kg.
Blue Water Footprint
The amount of fresh water used directly
from groundwater and surface water.
Green Water Footprint
The amount of water that mixes with the
soil due to natural rainfall and is used.
Grey Water Footprint
It represents the dilution amount required to maintain water quality, i.e., the impact of pollutants on water.
Waste Management
At Öksüt Mining, managing waste without harming the environment is a fundamental element of our sustainability approach. In all our operations, we implement management plans for hazardous waste, non-hazardous (non-mineral) waste, and household waste in accordance with national legislation and international standards.
Waste Management at Öksüt
- Non-Hazardous Waste: In 2024, we recycled 98% of the non-hazardous waste produced. This waste includes paper, plastic, glass, wood, metal, and vehicle tires.
- Hazardous Waste: 100% of the hazardous waste produced in 2024 was directed to recycling or licensed disposal processes. Waste oils and other hazardous materials were processed in accordance with environmental regulations through authorized companies.
- Waste Rock and Dam Waste: We manage and regularly monitor waste rock and ore processing waste from mining in accordance with regulations.
Our Approach
We prioritize waste reduction, reuse, and recycling. We conduct regular monitoring, sampling, and reporting activities throughout the site. We regularly inform our employees about waste separation and reducing environmental impacts.
2024 Results
These results demonstrate Öksüt’s strong performance in achieving its zero-waste management target.