Uzbekistan faces a critical water challenge, with only 18% of its water sources originating within the country while 82% flows from neighboring states through the Amu Darya and Syr Darya rivers. For Navoi Mining and Metallurgical Company, operating in the Kyzylkum desert, access to water is essential not just for mining and processing but also for local communities.

"Our annual water demand is 130 million cubic meters, with 81% sourced from the Amu Darya. To optimize water usage, significant investments have been made in conservation projects. By 2024, the water consumption per ton of processed ore was reduced from 1.05 cubic meters in 2020 to 0.92 cubic meters. Additionally, the use of secondary water sources increased from 16% in 2020 to 25% in 2024, and further improvements are planned” said Kuvondiq Sanakulov, Chairman of the Board – General Director of NMMC

To reduce reliance on freshwater, NMMC has doubled tailings water recovery, increased mine and groundwater use by 1.5 times, and now returns 5.5 million cubic meters of treated wastewater to production annually.

With the launch of the 2024-2030 Water Conservation Program, NMMC aims to cut clean water use to 0.8 m³ per ton of ore, increase recycled water share to 35-40%, and save 36 million m³ of clean water—securing supply for Zarafshan and Uchkuduk for nearly three years.

Water is not just a resource, it’s a responsibility. NMMC remains committed to sustainable water management for a more resilient future.

The Press-service of the Company.