Brazil Potash  has successfully obtained all the necessary permits and licenses for the construction of its Autazes Potash Project. This development marks a significant milestone in Brazil’s efforts to enhance food security both domestically and globally. The Project is strategically located in the municipality of Autazes, Amazonas, and is set to become a critical component of the nation’s agricultural sector.

Adriano Espeschit, President of Potássio do Brasil, commented in a press release: “This crucial achievement allows us to move forward in the construction of the large-scale project, which has already started with initial activities on site, but will last an average of four years to be fully ready for operation. We are finalizing the planning of necessary tasks, such as the relocation of wildlife, archaeological surveys, and the suppression of vegetation in an appropriate and environmentally responsible way. These preparatory efforts are essential to lay the groundwork for the start of civil works by the end of this year. Until then, we are preparing for large-scale construction activities on several fronts, representing a significant advancement in the development schedule of our Project.  We believe that the Project will create increased benefits for the communities in the region.”

Project Location and Environmental Considerations

The Autazes Potash Project is situated on low-density former cattle farmland in the municipality of Autazes, Amazonas. Notably, the construction and operation of the Project will have no impact on any primary growth rainforest. This consideration is crucial given the global concern over deforestation and environmental degradation in the Amazon region. Brazil Potash has emphasized its commitment to environmental sustainability throughout the planning and development stages of the Project.

Licensing and Permits

Brazil Potash, through its wholly-owned subsidiary Potássio do Brasil Ltda., has obtained a total of 21 Installation Licenses, Specific Environmental Licenses, and Authorizations for the Capture, Collection, and Transport of Wild Fauna. These were issued by the Institute of Environmental Protection of Amazonas (IPAAM). The licenses cover all aspects of the Project, including the sinking of two mine shafts, the construction of the processing plant, a river barge port, and a 13-kilometer road connecting the processing plant to the port.

Initial Construction Activities

Preliminary construction activities for the Project have already commenced, facilitated by the issuance of some earlier Installation Licenses. Among these activities, the drilling of two wells for drinking water collection was completed. Each well reached a depth of approximately 130 meters. These initial works were carried out near the village of Urucurituba in Autazes. The Project has already started to benefit the local community, particularly through the contraction of local accommodation services and food service providers.

Community Impact and Job Creation

Brazil Potash is committed to ensuring strict compliance with all environmental criteria established in the licensing documents for the Autazes Potash Project. As construction progresses, the Company expects to create significant opportunities for the communities of Autazes and the surrounding region. The procedures for hiring personnel for civil construction have already been initiated, and a network of service providers and suppliers is being developed. These stakeholders can register for free on the Potássio do Brasil website, allowing them to participate in the Project’s growth.

The construction of the Autazes Potash Project is expected to have a far-reaching impact on both regional and national development. Most importantly, it will play a crucial role in enhancing food security in Brazil and the world by ensuring a steady supply of potash, a key fertilizer in agricultural production.

Future Development and Operational Phase

Upon the completion of the construction phase, and following government inspection to ensure compliance with safety standards and Brazilian legislation, Potássio do Brasil anticipates receiving the required Operating License and Mining Concession. The Project is projected to have an extraction and operational period of at least 23 years, during which potash ore will be mined and processed to support agricultural needs.

Commitment to Sustainability

Brazil Potash has also made a strong commitment to sustainability by pledging to use primarily renewable energy sources for its operations. This commitment aligns with Brazil’s national strategy to maintain its position as a global leader in renewable energy adoption. By leveraging renewable energy, the Company aims to offset approximately 1.2 million tons of carbon emissions annually, contributing positively to the global fight against climate change.

The power grid operations of the Autazes Potash Project will be connected to the national grid via a transmission line, ensuring a reliable and sustainable power supply. This connection will also bring benefits to local communities that currently depend on diesel generators, providing them with a cleaner and more sustainable energy source.

The fully permitted status of the Autazes Potash Project is a major achievement for Brazil Potash and the broader Brazilian agricultural sector. With all necessary licenses and permits in place, the Company is poised to move forward with the construction and eventual operation of a project that promises to enhance food security, support regional development, and contribute to environmental sustainability.