Investment
(million USD) Advantages Disadvantages
1–2 Use of existing facilities. Potentially hazardous waste streams (flotation agents).
Limited investment required. Operations dependent on external ore supply.
20–25 Modern, safe and reliable operations. Potentially hazardous waste streams (flotation agents).
Operations dependent on external ore supply.
3 Increased value of local production. Potentially hazardous waste streams (cyanide).
Technology transfer, increased capacity in the region. Operations dependent on external ore supply.
no data Skilled workforce and permits, with basic underground Operations remote from Kaidarkan.
mining equipment already existing. Training required in commercial skills and new technologies.
40–60 Employment generated. Difficult to obtain license.
Economic development for the entire region. Long process until operations can start.
Operations independent from external ore supply. High capital investment required.
1.5 Deposit of good quality and relatively well explored. Potential mercury contamination through reuse of smelter.
Growing demand for building materials in the area.
1.5 Product can be used for remediation purposes on the Heavy and voluminous product, expensive to transport
mining site. over great distances.
Robust technology.
Limited environmental impact.
0.6 Potential costumers identified in Kyrgyzstan and Heavy and voluminous product, expensive to transport
Tajikistan. over great distances.
Robust technology.
Limited environmental impact.
0.3 Direct impact and capacity building. Limited benefits for regional development.
0.5–8 Reduced environmental and health risks. Lack of experience.
Increased area for productive and safe land use.
Use of existing workforce and equipment.