13.08.2026
EIA Programme for the Pampalo Mine Expansion Project Presented to the Public
Endomines organised a public information event in Ilomantsi on 11 August to present the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Programme for the planned expansion of the Pampalo mine.
A small but engaged group of local residents, landowners and other stakeholders attended the event to learn more about the project and participate in the discussion.
During the event, participants were introduced to the planned project, the content and timetable of the EIA process, and the key topics that will be assessed as part of the environmental impact assessment. Presentations were given by Endomines specialists together with representatives of AFRY Finland Oy, which is responsible for carrying out the assessment work.
Supporting the Long-Term Continuation of Operations
The objective of the Pampalo mine expansion project is to enable mining operations to continue well into the future. The plans include deepening and extending the underground mine, deepening the open pit, and expanding the waste rock and tailings storage areas. No changes are planned to the production capacity of the processing plant.
It was emphasised during the event that the purpose of the project is not to significantly increase production volumes, but rather to support the long-term continuation of existing operations while improving their environmental efficiency. At the same time, the company is developing opportunities for the utilisation of mining waste materials and further improving water management.
Water-Related Impacts Generated Particular Interest
Discussions at the event focused especially on potential impacts on water bodies. During project planning, it has been recognised that water-related issues are the primary concern for local residents. For this reason, special attention will be given to these aspects in the environmental impact assessment.
The assessment will examine impacts in both discharge directions and throughout the different stages of the mine’s lifecycle. The work will draw on extensive water studies, monitoring data, modelling and supplementary investigations.
Participants also discussed the closed water circulation system, the construction of a new process water pond, and measures to further develop water management. In addition, questions were raised regarding the utilisation of tailings, dust dispersion and its potential environmental and health impacts.
Assessment Work Continues
The EIA Programme will be available for public review until 26 August 2026, and all interested parties may submit comments and statements to the authorities during this period.
The next phase of the process is the preparation of the EIA Report, which will present the results of the environmental impact assessment. According to the preliminary schedule, the report will be completed and made available for public review in spring 2027.
We consider open dialogue with local residents and other stakeholders an important part of project planning. The discussions held and views received during the event will be taken into account as the environmental impact assessment progresses.
The EIA Programme is available for review and comments until 26 August 2026. Further information about the project can be found in the authorities’ public notice and the project documentation (in Finnish).
