The Development of the Miguel Burnier Mine in Ouro Preto Is the Main Objective of Gerdau with the Investment
Gerdau, one of the largest steel companies in Brazil, is committed to creating a new sustainable mining platform in Minas Gerais. With an investment of US$ 3.2 billion by 2026, the company aims to develop the Miguel Burnier mine, located in Ouro Preto (MG). This article will discuss the details of this investment and the benefits of the new mining platform.
The Investment in Mining Aims for a Production of 5.5 Million Tons of Iron Ore
Gerdau plans to invest R$ 3.2 billion in the Miguel Burnier mine, which is expected to start operation by the end of 2025. With the implementation of this new platform, the company intends to achieve a production of 5.5 million tons of iron ore. The project will adopt the dry stacking method for tailings disposal, eliminating the need for dams, which reinforces Gerdau’s commitment to sustainability in mining.
Sustainable Mining and Emission Reduction by Gerdau
Gerdau’s CEO, Gustavo Werneck, highlights that the new sustainable mining platform is an important initiative to reduce the company’s greenhouse gas emissions. This is due to the high-quality ore that will be produced, resulting in a more efficient steel production process with a lower environmental impact. Furthermore, the use of a slurry pipeline to transport the iron ore to the steel mill in Ouro Branco, located about 15 km from the mine, contributes to more sustainable mining and lower logistical impact.
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The New Investment Will Be Directed to Supply Steel Production Units
All the iron ore produced in this new investment will be directed to supply Gerdau’s steel production units in the state of Minas Gerais. The units in Ouro Branco, Barão de Cocais, Divinópolis, and Sete Lagoas will benefit from the supply of this high-quality ore. It is worth noting that Gerdau has been operating in the state for 35 years, and this investment further strengthens the company’s commitment to the economic and sustainable development of the region.
The investment of R$ 3.2 billion by Gerdau in the creation of a new sustainable mining platform in Minas Gerais demonstrates the company’s commitment to reducing environmental impacts and seeking more efficient processes. By adopting dry stacking for tailings disposal and using a slurry pipeline to transport iron ore, Gerdau is implementing measures that promote more sustainable mining. Additionally, supplying this ore to the steel production units in the state strengthens the company’s presence in the region and contributes to local economic development.

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