Norsk Hydro ASA said March 11 said that it released excess rainwater from its Alunorte bauxite facility in Brazil using a canal, which was not covered by the company's license, but maintained that there were no leaks or overflow at the site.
The company added that there was no indication that the controlled water release in February resulted in any negative environmental impact and the water was treated before the release from the factory area.
In late February, Norsk Hydro was directed by authorities to cut Alunorte operations by half over speculation about a leak at the site. The company then declared force majeure at the operation March 2.
The company said it informed the Secretariat of Environment and Sustainability of the state of Pará about the rainwater release.
A report of the event by an internal task force, as well as an independent external environmental review, will be concluded and presented in early April, noted Norsk Hydro CEO Richard Brandtzæg.
