Will it create employment ?
The mill has trained over 200 community members who will have the opportunity for employment by shutdown contractors in temporary positions (in addition to over 700 trained last year). Sappi is deeply mindful of the employment crunch being experienced all over the country, but regrettably only a certain number of job seekers will be accommodated
How will it impact you?
The lime kiln, which incinerates most of the odour when wood chips are cooked, will also be taken off-line for maintenance. As a result there may be increased odour levels in the vicinity of the mill during plant run downs and start-ups. The mill will activate its odour suppression system at these stages, with increased frequency and concentration of its perfume dosing system to help combat unpleasant odour. The mill’s auxiliary boilers will be used intermittently and may result in occasional dark smoke emanating from the auxiliary boiler stacks.
The odour and smoke poses no health risk to people or the environment.
How will it impact the area ?
Sappi in Mpumalanga contributes over R5.5b annually to the local economy, with the mill employing over 1 000 staff and 700 contractors. The Lowveld will host over 3 600 additional contractors over the duration of the shutdown, bringing a welcome boost to the local economy.
Sappi’s continued investment in Mpumalanga is an enduring testimony to its contribution to the lifeblood that sustains the local economy and communities
Fast fact
3 600 additional workers representing 2 600 companies, performing 50 000 shut related tasks/activities and erecting 1 100 tonnes of scaffolding.
Scope of work
Scaffolding erection |General maintenance |Cleaning |Corrosion protection| Reducing waste to landfill |Realising considerable freshwater saving
“Sappi’s continued investment in Mpumalanga is an enduring testimony to its contribution to the lifeblood that sustains the local economy and communities. This shutdown is necessary to fortify our resources and to ensure our longevity as a sustainable company with its sights set on a brighter future. We thank the public for their understanding and support and apologise for any inconvenience which may be experienced during this time.” Gopalan Naidoo, general manager, Sappi Ngodwana Mill.
