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Description
The project focuses on the development and implementation of greener production processes with a specific emphasis on optimizing the salt extraction process, particularly the transportation of salt. This optimization involves the introduction of a cutting-edge salt transportation system, featuring four mobile conveyor belts designed to efficiently transport salt from the crystallization basins.
The current technology used by the company is outdated and fully depreciated, resulting in high maintenance costs. Moreover, it is inadequate to meet the new production demands and increasing market requirements. In response, this project includes strategic investments in innovative environmental technologies to drive increased production capacity, efficiency, and cost reduction, all of which are vital for the sustainable growth and enhanced competitiveness of M-Pomoriiski Solnici Ltd.
The anticipated impact of these investments is multifaceted. Firstly, it will enhance the competitiveness and efficiency of salt extraction. This project also promises environmental benefits and positive implications for the protected area.
These benefits include a reduction in operational hours in the salinas, which will minimize intervention in the protected area. Additionally, there will be lower costs associated with salt extraction and transportation, resulting in reduced labor expenses and savings on the maintenance of outdated hydro-transport systems. Furthermore, a multiplier effect will lead to an increased salt yield due to an extended salt concentration period in the lake each year, with an expected increase in production by up to 36% per season. The company anticipates achieving high-quality salt with a chemical purity of 96% based on dry substance, along with relatively low salt losses during transport.
Notably, in April 2023, the project received an additional grant for the acquisition of two more mobile conveyor belts for salt transportation.
Summary of project results
Outdated Equipment: The existing salt transportation system was not only outdated but also fully depreciated, making it increasingly costly to maintain and operate. Over time, its inefficiency became more apparent as it failed to keep pace with the new production rates and the rising market demand. The need for a more modern and robust system was critical to support the growth and sustainability of the company’s operations.
Inefficiency and High Costs: The old hydro-transport system, which was used to move salt from the production sites to the processing facilities, was highly inefficient. It frequently led to the formation of impregnated salt lumps that required extensive and costly flushing and purification processes. This system''s inefficiency not only escalated maintenance costs but also increased labor expenses, as more manual intervention was required to manage and rectify these issues.
Environmental Impact: A significant environmental challenge was the project''s potential impact on Pomorie Lake, a Natura 2000 protected site. The existing operations interfered with the lake’s ecosystem, particularly affecting bird nesting periods and populations. The project aimed to minimize these interventions, thereby helping to extend the bird nesting periods and bolster the population of various bird species in the area.
Production Limitations: The constraints imposed by the outdated transportation and processing systems severely limited the company’s ability to scale up productivity. The project sought to address these limitations by implementing technological advancements that would increase salt yields. Furthermore, the goal was to ensure that the salt produced was of higher quality and chemical purity, meeting stricter market standards and consumer expectations.
Economic Sustainability: One of the core objectives of the project was to enhance the company’s economic sustainability. This involved increasing sales revenue and net profit through the adoption of more efficient production methods. By reducing overall production costs and improving operational efficiency, the project aimed to create a more profitable and resilient business model.
Climate and Environmental Concerns: Reducing the carbon footprint of the salt transportation process was another critical challenge. The project was designed to lower CO2 emissions, which were high due to the outdated equipment and processes. Additionally, by saving on electricity consumption, the project aimed to contribute to a greener and more environmentally friendly production process, aligning with global sustainability trends and regulatory requirements.
Activities
- Procurement and delivery of 6 mobile conveyor belts for the transportation of sea salt from the crystallization basins: These conveyor belts are essential for enhancing the efficiency of salt transport. They are designed to move large quantities of sea salt quickly and reliably, ensuring that the crystallized salt is transported from the basins to the processing units without significant losses.
Outputs
- Introduction of 1 innovative technology for salt transport: The deployment of six mobile conveyor belts signifies the introduction of a cutting-edge technology in the salt transport process. This innovation streamlines operations, reduces manual labour, and increases overall efficiency in the salt harvesting industry. Once fully operational, these conveyor belts became an integral part of the salt transport system, significantly boosting the capacity and reliability of salt movement from the crystallization basins to further processing stages.
- Creation of 4 new jobs: The project generates employment opportunities, contributing to the local economy. These positions may include operators, maintenance personnel, and other support roles necessary to ensure the smooth functioning of the new transport system.
- Implementation of a measure to increase the volumes of reserve water used as raw material for salt crystallization: By increasing the volumes of reserve water, the project aims to enhance the efficiency of the salt crystallization process. This measure ensures a steady supply of raw material, leading to higher yields of crystallized salt.
- Implementation of a measure to decrease CO2 emissions: One of the project''s environmental goals was to reduce carbon emissions associated with the salt transport process. The new conveyor belts are designed to be more energy-efficient, thereby contributing to a lower carbon footprint.
- Implementation of a measure to decrease energy consumption: Alongside reducing CO2 emissions, the project focuses on minimizing energy usage. The modern equipment introduced through this project now consumes less energy compared to previous methods, thereby reducing operational costs and environmental impact.
Environmental and Economic Benefits
- Increase in sales revenue and net profit of the company: The enhanced efficiency and productivity resulting from the new transport system are anticipated to boost the company''s sales revenue. Higher output and optimized processes leads to increased profitability.
- High quality and chemical purity of the salt (96-96.5% based on dry substance): The project aimed to ensure that the salt produced is of superior quality, meeting high standards of chemical purity. This quality is essential for maintaining the competitiveness of the salt in both domestic and international markets.
- Relatively low salt losses during transport: The use of advanced conveyor belts reduces the likelihood of salt loss during transport. This efficiency in handling ensures that a larger proportion of harvested salt reaches the processing stage, minimizing wastage.
- Reduction in CO2 emissions from salt extraction (approximately 20 tons per year) and from saved electricity consumption (about 28 tons per year): The combined environmental measures are projected to result in significant reductions in CO2 emissions. The modern equipment''s energy efficiency contributes to saving electricity, further decreasing the project''s overall carbon footprint.
The project achieved significant improvements in the competitiveness and efficiency of M-Pomoriiski Solnici Ltd. through the mechanization of the salt transportation process. Key outcomes include:
- Increased Competitiveness: The company experienced an annual growth in turnover and net operational profit. This growth was fuelled by the improved efficiency and capacity of salt production, allowing the company to meet higher market demand and expand its customer base.
- Innovative Technology: The introduction of an innovative salt transport system, consisting of 6 mobile conveyor belts, has been fully operational. This system has significantly enhanced production capacity and quality, reducing manual labour and increasing the consistency and reliability of the salt transportation process.
- Environmental Benefits: The project led to a decrease in CO2 emissions by 48 tons per year, with 20 tons saved from improved salt extraction methods and 28 tons saved from reduced electricity consumption. Additionally, the project contributed to the conservation of biodiversity in the Pomorie Lake area, which is a protected region under Natura 2000, by minimizing the environmental footprint of salt production activities.
- Job Creation: The creation of 4 new jobs has improved local employment opportunities. These positions not only provided new employment but also helped to stabilize the local economy by offering stable and sustainable job opportunities within the company.
- Operational Efficiency: The salt extraction period has been reduced from four months to one, greatly increasing the efficiency of the production cycle. This has led to higher yields and reduced costs, allowing the company to produce more salt in a shorter period and at a lower cost, ultimately boosting profitability.
The primary beneficiaries of the project are:
- M-Pomoriiski Solnici Ltd.: The company benefited from increased production capacity, improved product quality, reduced operational costs, and enhanced competitiveness, positioning it as a leader in the salt production industry.
- Local Environment: The protected area of Pomorie Lake, part of Natura 2000, benefited from reduced human activities and improved biodiversity conservation. The project''s environmentally friendly approach ensured that the natural habitat was preserved and protected.
- Employees: The creation of new jobs provided local employment opportunities and improved working conditions for existing and new employees. This contributed to the overall well-being and stability of the workforce.
- Customers: Companies involved in road maintenance and processing industries benefited from the availability of higher quality, environmentally friendly salt products. These customers experienced improved performance and sustainability in their operations, thanks to the superior quality of the salt produced by M-Pomoriiski Solnici Ltd.