Environmental Protection and Mining Inspection Body has examined the impact of inactive tailings storage facilities on the environment. The outcomes are presented in a report by the Public Television Company:
According to Hovhannes Martirosyan, Head of Environmental Protection and Mining Inspection Body: “We do not have a critically dangerous or catastrophic situation.”
In Armenia, there are 22 tailings storage facilities covering a total area of 1,176 hectares. Out of these:
- 12 are located in Syunik Region
- 7 in Lori Region
- 1 each in Aragatsotn, Ararat, and Gegharkunik Regions
Out of 22 tailings facilities:
- 7 are operational
- 6 have been reclaimed (recultivated)
- 9 still require reclamation
Hovhannes Martirosyan explained: “We have identified certain issues that could lead to potential risks in the future. The task of the working group was to identify these issues and provide recommendations on what measures should be implemented to prevent possible future risks.”
Hovhannes Toqmajyan, Chair of Scientific Council of Institute of Water Problems and Hydrotechnics named after Academician I.V. Yeghiazarov, noted: “We are studying the development of a special waterproofing material with which we will cover the entire surface of the tailings facility, leaving only the necessary filtration outlets required for its long-term stability.”
The next stage is to test the material in natural conditions. “We will propose to our partners to select a pilot site and test this material. After some time, we will understand what results have been achieved,” Hovhannes Martirosyan noted.
April 07, 2026 at 13:20