[Summary translation prepared by Business & Human Rights Resource Centre]

Is the Alumina Plant Near St. Petersburg a Threat? — November 27, 2024

Residents of the village of Voronino have raised concerns about the potential construction of an alumina plant in the area. Here's a summary of the key issues:

Environmental Concerns (10:06)

• Red mud, a byproduct of alumina production, could alter soil pH and devastate coniferous forests.
  

Information and Transparency Issues (12:54)

• The project has not passed an environmental review.
  
• Water wells were drilled without proper scientific data.
  
• Questions have arisen about the motivations behind the project.
  

Legal Violations (14:45)

• The construction plan appears to violate federal laws and environmental regulations.
  

Broader Industry Criticism (15:40)

• Russia continues to export raw materials rather than develop domestic processing.
  
• The project has faced public backlash: over 90% of Sosnovy Bor residents oppose it.
  

Lack of Environmental Review (16:37)

• The new council in charge has not considered local opinion.
  
• The project lacks an official environmental assessment.
  
• Residents are actively collecting signatures against the construction.
  

Environmental Impact (18:25)

• The plant would rely on surface water sources.
  
• Concerns exist about waste transport and storage.
  
• Potential risks to the nearby Leningrad Nuclear Power Plant and surrounding facilities.
  

Economic and Social Impacts (20:13)

• The plant could discourage skilled professionals from living in the area.
  
• Negative effects on agriculture and overall quality of life.
  
• Calls for a comprehensive analysis of the project’s long-term impact.