Water Quality Baseline Study for Sulawesi Mining Operation

Supporting Good Mining Practice with Comprehensive Environmental Data

Year: 2022
Client: PT Merdeka Copper Gold Tbk.
Location: Pani and Marisa, Pohuwatu, Gorontalo, Sulawesi Island

Executive Summary

In 2022, PT Merdeka Copper Gold Tbk. engaged PT SUPRA International Indonesia to conduct a Water Quality Baseline Study in Pani and Marisa, Gorontalo. This study established a detailed baseline for water resources, enabling mining operations to meet stringent environmental standards. By providing accurate data, the study facilitated regulatory compliance, supported permitting processes, and laid the groundwork for sustainable practices that align with the expectations of regulators, investors, and local communities. The baseline study is a critical tool for ensuring environmentally responsible operations, offering PT Merdeka Copper Gold Tbk. a foundation for informed decision-making and long-term success in the mining sector.

Project Overview

The project spanned a significant area in Pani and Marisa, a region with a history of past mining activities that presented environmental considerations. The rugged terrain and limited infrastructure posed logistical challenges for fieldwork. SUPRA applied systematic methodologies to collect precise water quality data, ensuring all deliverables met national and international environmental standards. This work equipped PT Merdeka Copper Gold Tbk. with a clear understanding of baseline water conditions, enabling the company to plan operations that balance productivity with environmental responsibility. The project demonstrates the critical role of environmental assessments in supporting sustainable mining operations.

Importance of the Baseline Study

A water quality baseline study is essential for any mining operation, serving as the foundation for environmental management and regulatory compliance. By documenting the pre-existing conditions of water resources, the study provides a reference point for monitoring impacts throughout the project lifecycle. This enables early identification of potential environmental issues, allowing for proactive measures to prevent or mitigate risks, such as contamination or resource depletion. For PT Merdeka Copper Gold Tbk., the baseline data ensures compliance with Indonesia’s strict environmental regulations, streamlining permitting processes and reducing the risk of regulatory delays.

Beyond compliance, the study supports strategic planning by offering insights into water management practices that optimize resource use and minimize environmental impact. It also enhances stakeholder confidence by demonstrating a commitment to transparency and accountability, which is critical for maintaining trust with regulators, investors, and local communities. In a region like Pani and Marisa, where past mining activities raise concerns, a robust baseline study is a proactive step toward building a sustainable operation that aligns with global Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards, positioning the company for long-term operational and financial success.

Key Project Highlights

• Analyzed surface water, spring water, and groundwater to establish a comprehensive baseline.


• Navigated challenging terrain and limited infrastructure to deliver reliable data.


• Ensured compliance with national and international environmental regulations.


• Provided data to support permitting and strengthen ESG performance.

Challenges Addressed

The project required careful planning to address several challenges. The remote and rugged terrain made accessing sampling sites difficult, necessitating efficient field strategies. Past mining activities introduced safety considerations for field teams, requiring coordinated efforts to ensure secure operations. Strict regulatory standards demanded high-precision data collection and reporting, while potential environmental impacts called for reliable testing methods. SUPRA’s systematic approach ensured these challenges were addressed effectively, delivering results that supported the project’s objectives.

Our Approach

SUPRA conducted the study with a focus on technical accuracy and collaboration. We worked with local authorities and stakeholders to align fieldwork with regional priorities and ensure safety. A tailored field plan enabled efficient access to sampling points, allowing systematic collection of water samples from multiple sources. Accredited laboratories were used to analyze samples, ensuring accurate and reliable results that met industry standards. The final reports were clear and actionable, designed to support permitting processes and facilitate stakeholder communication, providing PT Merdeka Copper Gold Tbk. with practical tools for success.

Strategic Impact

The Water Quality Baseline Study provided PT Merdeka Copper Gold Tbk. with significant strategic advantages. The reliable dataset supported the permitting process by offering clear evidence of environmental diligence, enabling faster regulatory approvals and ensuring compliance with Indonesia’s environmental standards. From a strategic perspective, the study strengthens the company’s ability to anticipate regulatory requirements and adapt operations accordingly, minimizing delays and enhancing project efficiency.

The study also bolsters the company’s ESG profile, which is increasingly important for attracting investment. By prioritizing sustainability, PT Merdeka Copper Gold Tbk. demonstrates a commitment to responsible practices, building confidence among investors and regulators. Transparent data sharing with local communities in Pani and Marisa fosters trust and collaboration, reducing social risks that can disrupt mining projects. Additionally, the baseline data supports proactive environmental management, enabling the company to implement measures like water monitoring systems to address potential issues early. This approach enhances operational stability and positions the company to adopt innovative technologies, maintaining a competitive edge in the global mining industry.

Key Outcomes

• Comprehensive Baseline Data: A detailed dataset to guide operations and environmental monitoring.


• Efficient Permitting: Clear data supported regulatory approvals and compliance.


• Improved ESG Profile: Strengthened reputation through sustainable practices.


• Community Trust: Transparent data sharing built positive stakeholder relationships.


• Risk Management: Early identification of environmental factors for effective planning.

Business Benefits

The study delivered practical benefits for PT Merdeka Copper Gold Tbk.:

• A dependable dataset to inform operational decisions and track environmental performance.


• A foundation for sustainable water management to optimize resource use.


• A competitive advantage through alignment with global ESG and environmental standards.

Why Choose SUPRA?

PT SUPRA International Indonesia provides professional environmental engineering services tailored to the mining industry. Our expertise in water quality assessments, regulatory compliance, and stakeholder engagement helps clients address complex challenges efficiently. With a focus on technical precision and actionable outcomes, we support mining companies in achieving operational excellence and sustainability. Contact us to learn how our services can enhance your next project’s environmental and business outcomes.