Pioneering Pursuits & Purposeful Programmes Prevail

Magnitogorsk Iron and Steel Works has firmly anchored itself at the forefront of environmental stewardship by embracing the Federal Clean Air Project. Since 2017, MMK committed to cut emissions of priority pollutants by 20.8% or 39,980 metric tons by 2026. According to Chief Ecologist Igor Burmistrov, “Every year, we witness steady progress that reflects our deep responsibility to both industry and community.”

Strategic Spending & Sustainable Solutions Shape Success

To realise these goals, MMK crafted a broad programme featuring 20 targeted actions, underpinned by planned investments of 60.3 billion rubles (around $670 million). Already, 14 of these measures have reduced emissions by 18.1% or 34,800 metric tons, supported by 56.9 billion rubles (around $635 million) in spending. “It is an investment in future generations,” Burmistrov affirmed.

Sintering Systems & Sophisticated Safeguards Strengthen Standards

In 2019, MMK launched a landmark project: a new sintering plant built using best available technologies. This upgrade enabled decommissioning the older sintering plant No. 4, significantly raising environmental safety. “By modernising legacy facilities, we mitigate risks and enhance efficiency,” noted Burmistrov, highlighting the project’s dual economic and ecological value.

Aspiration Arrays & Advanced Assemblies Abate Airborne Adversity

Between 2019 and 2024, MMK commissioned aspiration systems across blast furnaces, converters and cast iron departments, plus new electric arc steel-making furnaces. Dust-free coke discharge machines were added to three coke batteries, while modern gas cleaning units now capture fugitive emissions. “These units alone captured 60,000 metric tons of dust in 2024,” Burmistrov reported.

Coke Complex & Cutting-Edge Controls Curtail Contaminants

MMK’s signature achievement, the coke oven battery complex No. 12, sharply reduced annual pollutant emissions by 11,000 metric tons. Equipped with 28 aspiration systems, a desulphurisation unit cutting sulphur dioxide by 27 times to 30 mg/m³ and a denitrification unit lowering nitrogen oxides by 7 times to 150 mg/m³, it also features closed-loop water supply and a biochemical plant treating 300 m³/hour of wastewater. “This complex is a model of modern environmental engineering,” Burmistrov added.

Reconstructed Resources & Robust Results Reduce Residual Risks

Further projects include rebuilding four air heaters and replacing four sintering machines to cut carbon monoxide and hydrogen sulfide emissions. The new blast furnace slag anhydrous cooling section, set to reach capacity by 2025, has already ended local hydrogen sulfide complaints. “These projects are not abstract investments,” Burmistrov stated. “They translate into cleaner air our neighbours can feel.”

Monitoring Mechanisms & Meticulous Measurements Maintain Momentum

A dense monitoring network, consisting of 11 stationary posts and four mobile posts, ensures continuous oversight. MMK conducts around 3,000 daily measurements of pollutant concentrations and 375 meteorological checks. Data is published live on the MMK website and shared with the Chelyabinsk Region’s Environmental Monitoring Centre. “Transparency builds public trust,” Burmistrov emphasised. “Our community deserves real-time updates on air quality.”

Environmental Ethos & Enduring Engagement Elevate Enterprise

MMK’s integrated approach weaves investment, innovation and accountability into a coherent strategy. By combining modern technology, strict compliance and public transparency, the company has already achieved a 27.4% drop in emissions and improved city air quality by 3.9 times versus 2017. “Our mission is clear,” concluded Burmistrov. “Cleaner production, healthier communities and a sustainable legacy.”

Key Takeaways:

• MMK has reduced pollutant emissions by 27.4% since 2017 through a $670 million investment programme.

• Flagship projects like the coke oven battery complex No. 12 and new sintering plant dramatically cut harmful emissions.

• Continuous monitoring with 15 air quality posts and 3,000 daily checks ensures real-time transparency.