Question 1

What does the extension of the Trojárová exploration area mean?

Accepted Answer

The validity of the exploration area has been extended until 18 October 2030. Continued exploration is subject to the binding conditions of the ministry's decision and to obtaining the necessary additional consents.

Question 2

Is there mining at Trojárová today?

Accepted Answer

No. Trojárová is an exploration and development project, not an operating mine. Its further assessment is meant to provide the data needed to decide on any future development.

Question 3

Does the extension of the exploration area also mean a permit to mine?

Accepted Answer

No. The project is at the stage of geological exploration, the aim of which is to obtain data. Any mining would be a separate project with its own permitting, environmental impact assessment (EIA) and public consultation.

Question 4

Does the figure of 6.5 million tonnes refer to the amount of antimony?

Accepted Answer

No. It is the estimated amount of rock containing antimony and gold, not the amount of the metal itself. The estimate falls into the Inferred Mineral Resource category and does not confirm the economic viability of mining.

Question 5

Will the project finally remove the historical tailings ponds and pollution?

Accepted Answer

The intention is to examine ways of helping to address historical burdens. The specific scope of remediation, suitable technologies and the expected result cannot yet be considered confirmed. They must be based on knowledge of the state of the area and on further expert studies.

Question 6

How will transport and nature protection be assessed?

Accepted Answer

Transport, noise, soil and habitats are to be part of the environmental assessment as early as the project preparation stage. The aim is to prevent impacts as a priority and to propose specific measures based on the results of the expert evaluation.

Question 7

How will the protection of water resources be taken into account?

Accepted Answer

Knowledge of water resources and the natural environment is a prerequisite for deciding whether the project continues. Specific technical solutions must undergo expert assessment and the relevant permitting procedures.

Question 8

Can new drilling start immediately after the extension of the exploration area?

Accepted Answer

No. New drilling can only begin once the necessary consents and opinions of the nature conservation authority have been obtained. Until then, SAC will not carry out any drilling or related interventions in the area.

Question 9

Will Slovak scientists also be involved in the project?

Accepted Answer

SAC plans to develop cooperation with the Technical University of Košice. It is to focus on mineral processing, water management and research into the responsible use of domestic sources of critical raw materials.

Question 10

Where can I get more detailed information?

Accepted Answer

You can send questions about the project, exploration or environmental measures to info@antimon.eu.