Environmental stewardship is one of Udokan Copper’s strategic priorities, with the company’s management viewing it as an integral component of sustainable development.
This commitment is reflected in the scale of investment: more than RUB 130 million was allocated in 2025 to environmental initiatives and protection measures.
“Environmental protection is part of Udokan Copper’s day-to-day operating culture. The fragile ecosystem of northern Zabaikalsky Krai requires constant attention and a responsible approach, and the company consistently demonstrates this through practical initiatives and the results of its environmental monitoring”, said Deputy CEO Yulia Shabala.
Environmental monitoring conducted annually in partnership with the Institute of Natural Resources, Ecology and Cryology of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences once again confirmed in 2025 that the company’s operations have had no adverse impact on biodiversity.
Udokan Copper continues to support the development of Kodar National Park, a federally protected natural area. With the company’s support, the park developed its brand identity in 2025, while a concept design was also prepared for the Shelter of the Winds visitor centre. Preparation of the design and cost-estimate documentation for construction of the facility is scheduled for 2026. The visitor centre project was recognised at the 14th All-Russian Review Competition of Architectural Projects and Completed Developments for 2020–2025, with its developers receiving first-degree honours in the Public Complexes, Buildings and Structures category.
Another initiative undertaken in support of Kodar National Park was a large-scale study of the environmental and economic potential of the Lake Leprindo recreational area for tourism infrastructure as well as the development of physical education, sport and active recreation.
As part of the study, scientists from the Institute of Natural Resources, Ecology and Cryology measured lake depths, collected water samples, assessed aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, and examined local vegetation and wildlife, including bird and mammal populations. Researchers also surveyed residents of Kalarsky District and park visitors. The findings confirmed that the area’s natural systems remain in good condition and retain significant ecological potential. Based on the findings, researchers evaluated existing infrastructure, identified priority areas for tourism development and proposed practical measures ranging from facility placement to event programming.
The company is also implementing a programme to release Siberian sturgeon fry, a species listed on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List. In 2026, 70,000 fry were released into the Chara River. To date, more than 200,000 fish have been released under the initiative as part of a long-term biological resource restoration programme running through 2030. In 2026, the company also plans to monitor the condition of plants transplanted within its operational area.
The company’s interaction with ecosystems is inseparably linked to the well-being of local communities. The traditional land-use territories of the Indigenous Evenki people are an area of particular focus. The company’s activities do not directly affect ecosystem services that are essential to preserving traditional livelihoods, including reindeer grazing lands and the spawning grounds of the Chara River. Nevertheless, the company continues to take a proactive approach by maintaining dialogue with local communities and implementing projects that support reindeer herding and habitat conservation.
Environmental performance remains one of the key indicators of an industrial enterprise’s long-term sustainability. At Udokan Copper, this area is overseen by the Environmental Safety Department. Its responsibilities extend well beyond operational oversight, encompassing comprehensive monitoring of environmental conditions ranging from air, water and soil quality to the state of zoobenthos and zooplankton populations.
