Synopsis: Vale, a major player in the mining industry, unveiled Agera, a subsidiary dedicated to promoting the Sustainable Sand business. This initiative focuses on transforming iron ore tailings into a sand alternative, mitigating the environmental effects of traditional sand extraction. Within its short lifespan, Agera projects substantial growth and holds the promise of significantly influencing construction and industrial sectors.Article: In an era where sustainability and environmental responsibility dominate global conversations, one of Brazil's largest mining entities, Vale, has taken a decisive step forward. Recently, the mining behemoth introduced Agera, a novel company set to revolutionize the Sustainable Sand domain.Emerging from the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, Agera's primary mandate involves harnessing sand derived from the treatment of tailings produced during Vale's iron ore processes. This initiative is not only environmentally impactful but also economically promising, as the sand finds its applications in critical sectors like construction and road infrastructure.The conception of Sustainable Sand is no recent epiphany. Vale's dedication to the cause became evident in 2021, following seven years of relentless research. Their product, a viable alternative to environmentally-harvested sand, has since been integrated into various construction projects. The figures are promising: 900,000 metric tons already dispatched, with a projection of 1 million metric tons by the end of the year and an ambitious 2.1 million metric tons by 2024.This push towards sustainability is part of a broader vision, as Fabiano Carvalho Filho, Vale's Business Development Director, elucidates. Agera's establishment echoes the company's commitment to circular mining, a philosophy which synergizes economic progress with judicious use of natural resources.Agera's operations are expansive. Boasting seven customer service touchpoints and stocking materials in key Brazilian locations, the company's reach is formidable. The commercial partnerships extend to road hauliers, rail freight providers, and a plethora of manufacturing units, highlighting Agera's industry impact.At the heart of this venture is the intricate process of obtaining Sustainable Sand. The byproduct of wet processing of iron ore, tailings primarily comprise silica, integral to sand, and iron oxides. Vale's commitment to reusing this sand signifies a conscious effort to diminish tailings production.Sustainable Sand holds an array of benefits for diverse industries. Given the environmental repercussions of traditional sand extraction, Vale's solution is a welcome respite. Beyond ecological advantages, Sustainable Sand promises enhanced profitability for businesses, improved product quality, and a reduced carbon footprint.Notably, international institutions have acknowledged Sustainable Sand's potential. A collaborative study between the University of Queensland and the University of Geneva confirmed its dual environmental benefits.Concluding the discussion, it's worth noting Vale's other sustainable ventures. From testing road construction solutions that employ Sustainable Sand to pioneering the Pico Block Factory, Vale's vision for a greener tomorrow is clear.Conclusion: The establishment of Agera by Vale is not just a business endeavor but a testament to the mining giant's commitment to a sustainable future. As the world grapples with the environmental repercussions of mining and construction, initiatives like Sustainable Sand offer a glimmer of hope. With industry and academia's collaborative spirit, the future seems promising, ensuring that nature's bounty is utilized responsibly for the betterment of society.
Synopsis: Vale, a major player in the mining industry, unveiled Agera, a subsidiary dedicated to promoting the Sustainable Sand business. This initiative focuses on transforming iron ore tailings into a sand alternative, mitigating the environmental effects of traditional sand extraction. Within its short lifespan, Agera projects substantial growth and holds the promise of significantly influencing construction and industrial sectors.Article: In an era where sustainability and environmental responsibility dominate global conversations, one of Brazil's largest mining entities, Vale, has taken a decisive step forward. Recently, the mining behemoth introduced Agera, a novel company set to revolutionize the Sustainable Sand domain.Emerging from the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, Agera's primary mandate involves harnessing sand derived from the treatment of tailings produced during Vale's iron ore processes. This initiative is not only environmentally impactful but also economically promising, as the sand finds its applications in critical sectors like construction and road infrastructure.The conception of Sustainable Sand is no recent epiphany. Vale's dedication to the cause became evident in 2021, following seven years of relentless research. Their product, a viable alternative to environmentally-harvested sand, has since been integrated into various construction projects. The figures are promising: 900,000 metric tons already dispatched, with a projection of 1 million metric tons by the end of the year and an ambitious 2.1 million metric tons by 2024.This push towards sustainability is part of a broader vision, as Fabiano Carvalho Filho, Vale's Business Development Director, elucidates. Agera's establishment echoes the company's commitment to circular mining, a philosophy which synergizes economic progress with judicious use of natural resources.Agera's operations are expansive. Boasting seven customer service touchpoints and stocking materials in key Brazilian locations, the company's reach is formidable. The commercial partnerships extend to road hauliers, rail freight providers, and a plethora of manufacturing units, highlighting Agera's industry impact.At the heart of this venture is the intricate process of obtaining Sustainable Sand. The byproduct of wet processing of iron ore, tailings primarily comprise silica, integral to sand, and iron oxides. Vale's commitment to reusing this sand signifies a conscious effort to diminish tailings production.Sustainable Sand holds an array of benefits for diverse industries. Given the environmental repercussions of traditional sand extraction, Vale's solution is a welcome respite. Beyond ecological advantages, Sustainable Sand promises enhanced profitability for businesses, improved product quality, and a reduced carbon footprint.Notably, international institutions have acknowledged Sustainable Sand's potential. A collaborative study between the University of Queensland and the University of Geneva confirmed its dual environmental benefits.Concluding the discussion, it's worth noting Vale's other sustainable ventures. From testing road construction solutions that employ Sustainable Sand to pioneering the Pico Block Factory, Vale's vision for a greener tomorrow is clear.Conclusion: The establishment of Agera by Vale is not just a business endeavor but a testament to the mining giant's commitment to a sustainable future. As the world grapples with the environmental repercussions of mining and construction, initiatives like Sustainable Sand offer a glimmer of hope. With industry and academia's collaborative spirit, the future seems promising, ensuring that nature's bounty is utilized responsibly for the betterment of society.
