Active Stakeholder Engagement Continues – June Meeting Focused on Water Management and Regional Development
Endomines held a stakeholder collaboration group meeting on 11 June 2026 in Ilomantsi. The meeting brought together a broad range of participants, including local stakeholders, authorities, and representatives of various communities. Topics discussed included current issues at the mine, future plans, water management, collaboration, and ideas to support the planning of a future visitor center.
“Regular dialogue is important to maintain trust and to find solutions that work for everyone,” said Hanne Mäkelä, Chief Sustainability Officer at Endomines.
Sustainability as the Foundation
During the meeting, Endomines’ sustainability programme, implemented measures, and future targets were reviewed. The company has recently strengthened its environmental and sustainability team in particular.
“The most important aspect of our sustainability work is water management. Our responsibility is to ensure that our operations do not have harmful impacts on water systems. Safeguarding biodiversity is also becoming an increasingly important priority,” Mäkelä stated.
Pampalo Well Positioned for Growth
The outlook for the Pampalo mine for the coming years is strong, and operations are ready for growth. The number of employees has increased by 46 over the past year, and safety has been actively developed through investments in equipment and training. Safety observations are being reported more than ever before. This year, the mine has recorded zero lost time injuries.
“In addition to safety, environmental matters are part of our daily work. Environmental studies and impact assessments are carried out extensively, including fisheries monitoring, biological surveys, as well as noise, dust and vibration modelling,” said Ilkka Räty, Chief Operations Officer.
Focus on Water Management
Water management was the main topic of the meeting. Several solutions are currently being developed at Pampalo to improve water recycling and reduce environmental impacts.
In 2026, actions include:
• Construction of a new water storage basin
• Enhanced treatment of mine water
• Further improvements in water recycling within the processing plant
• Piloting solutions for the removal of nitrogen and sulphate
• Launching a project to develop biological water treatment methods
The goal is to minimize the discharge of water into the environment and maximize the recycling of process water.
Development of the Southern Gold Line Progresses
The meeting also covered the development project of the Southern Gold Line. A new production facility is being planned for the area, to be built and commissioned in phases. In parallel, a tungsten and molybdenum production facility is also under consideration.
The environmental impact assessment (EIA) related to the project is ongoing. It evaluates impacts on water systems, nature, and people’s daily lives, while also comparing different implementation alternatives across the project’s lifecycle.
Water management is being designed to minimize the amount of water discharged outside the mining area, with water treated as required. The approach will involve combinations of physical, chemical, and biological solutions.
“Water management methods in mining have developed tremendously over the years. We are in a completely different situation compared to 30 years ago,” noted Sustainability Manager Heliminna Modig.
Exploration Advancing
Endomines has significantly increased exploration activities along the Karelian Gold Line in recent years. This year, up to 50,000 metres will be drilled – more than any other mining company in Finland. As a result, gold resources in the area have multiplied since 2022.
“Exploration is long-term work, and it can take more than ten years from discovery to mine start-up. It is essential that all studies are carried out thoroughly and that dialogue with landowners is open,” emphasized Jani Rautio, Chief Technical Officer responsible for exploration.
Ideas for a Visitor Centre and Regional Vitality
The meeting also explored ideas for a visitor centre that could boost tourism in the area and present mining operations in an engaging way. Together with participants, ideas included:
• Simulators and interactive or virtual presentations of mining
• Showcasing local culture and history
• A shop and the opportunity to observe jewellery making
• Gold panning experiences
“The aim is to create a concept that brings vitality to the region and benefits local businesses,” said Tarja Lantto, Project Manager for the Gold Line development project.
Collaboration Continues
The collaboration group will continue to meet in the future, with the next meeting scheduled for the coming autumn. Future meetings will further address topics such as biodiversity and regional development.
Endomines thanks all participants for the constructive discussions and valuable ideas. The collaboration continues!
