EuroChem’s mining and fertilizer complex in Serra do Salitre, the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, has been awarded the “Committed” certification by EcoVadis, a leading global platform conducting assessments based on strict sustainability criteria, including environmental impact, labor practices, ethical standards and sustainable procurement.

EuroChem’s participation in the EcoVadis initiative is a practical demonstration of its commitment to environmental responsibility, corporate ethics, social responsibility and sustainable supply chains, which are the key pillars of the ESG agenda.

The certification process began in January and involved several stages (from platform registration to assessment conducted by independent experts).

“The EcoVadis certification plays a key role in EuroChem’s operations. It demonstrates our compliance with international ESG principals, strengthens our reputation, enhances stakeholder relationships and establishes us as a trusted partner in the supply chain by adding both strategic and competitive value,” says Juliano Ferreira, Environmental and Licensing Manager at EuroChem Brazil.

The certification brings several advantages to the business, such as the improvement of sustainability practices, greater product differentiation in the market and enhanced corporate reputation. It will also contribute to risk identification and mitigation, as well as the reduction of the environmental impact of operations.

The certification is valid for 12 months, and then a reassessment will take place. To improve its further standing, EuroChem has submitted 50 initiatives to EcoVadis grouped by themes and ESG indicators with established implementation priorities.

EuroChem’s facility in Serra do Salitre has been recognized as an example in implementing circular economy practices within the Brazilian mining industry and included in the “Blue Book” of the Brazilian Institute of Mining (IBRAM). Each year, the facility recycles 35 billion liters of water. The system is closed-loop with biodegradable substances and full water reuse in production.

In addition to water reuse, the facility generates 40% of its own energy using heat recovered from the sulfuric acid production process. Since August 2024, it has also adopted a “zero landfill” approach ensuring that no waste is sent to landfills.

The facility invests R$ 10 million (US$ 1.8 million) annually in social and environmental initiatives, including environmental education projects in 14 schools in the area. Over 300 students have participated in the Environment Week event last July.