Building New Infrastructure
One of ICL Rotem’s largest infrastructure projects is the construction of the new retention ponds. These ponds are used to retain acidic phosphogypsum fluid. The Phosphogypsum component precipitates to the bottom of the ponds, and the remaining water is circulated back for re-usage in the ICL Rotem production processes. The new ponds are built with top of the line technology according to the world highest standards. This technology allows for many advantages, in terms of exceptional pond strength and stability, as well as unprecedented water re-usage efficiency. These new ponds replace the old ponds near Ashalim Creek.
ICL Rotem has reached an agreement with Adam Teva V’Din (an environmental NGO) regarding the rehabilitation of the old ponds and well as the construction, use, inspection and supervision of the number 5 pond (A and B) and the planning of the new pond.
Most of ICL Rotem’s R&D in the in the past few years has been focused on solving environmental issues. ICL Rotem is searching for technological solutions for environmental concerns that have been raised as part of its preparation to comply with the Clean Air Law. ICL Rotem has already concluded some major projects concerning the Clean Air Law, including the establishment of a new 96-meters high emission stack, and replacing the catalyst of the converter unit in one of the sulfuric acid production facilities. More projects will be performed in the upcoming years.
ICL Rotem is also focusing on some of its waste streams. The company is currently evaluating the possibility of developing a wastewater neutralization facility. In addition, ICL Rotem is searching and developing the various ways and possible solutions for recycling some of its waste streams. Read more about ICL Rotem circular economy initiatives.
In order to comply with the various environmental requirements, ICL Rotem is investing approximately $200 million. ICL Rotem estimates that approximately 200 employees will be employed as part of these various projects.
In the next few years, the company expects that about 80% of the total investments at ICL Rotem, will be spent on environmental protection projects.
