Release: KEM Supports the mercury awareness program
Monday, September 22 2003 - 01:37 AM WIB
The aim of the program is to increase community awareness of the hazards associated with mercury is improperly handled.
The Mercury Awareness Program has targeted the community, regional governments, medical staff and schools. The program will reach more than 300 villagers and local government staff and more than 1500 students. It will be completed 24 September. In implementing the program, KEM also cooperated with the Environmental Agency, Health Agency and Educational Agency of Kutai Barat.
KEM does not use mercury in its gold processing but has supported this program as part of its community and environmental awareness initiatives. Low levels of mercury occur naturally in the Kelian area and are associated with the volcanic activity that produce the Kelian ore deposit. KEM tests its discharge for the presence of mercury weekly and there in no detectable mercury in the discharge.
KEM operates a gold mine in Kelian, West Kutai, East Kalimantan. KEM hires approximately 600 permanent employees and 900 contractors, the majority of which are locally recruited. In 2002, KEM spent approximately US$ 2,000,000 for its environmental program. KEM constitutes a company with ISO14001 certificate for its environmental management.
For further information, please contact:
Yudhi Purwandi, Acting Superintendent Communication
Tel: +(62-542) 765 861 Extension 295
Fax: +(62-542) 761 818
Email: yudi.purwandi@ptkem.co.id
Website: www.keliangold.com