To do modern mining, we must put the environment and people first.

Reporter: As one of the first units in Vietnam to be recognized by ZIA as a sustainable mining model , can you share why Hoang Long chose this direction?

Mr. Nguyen Duc Long: Mining is an essential industry but it is also easily misunderstood. From the very beginning, we determined that if we want to survive long-term and integrate internationally, we must change the way we do things – we cannot do it in an exhaustive manner, then leave behind environmental consequences.

Mr. Nguyen Duc Long answered reporters

We are committed to sustainable development, working with the community, investing in clean technology and transparent governance. It is not only a responsibility, but also a survival strategy.

More specifically, how are those commitments realized at Hoang Long?

First is technology. We deploy a closed-loop titanium separation process, reusing water and minimizing waste.

The restored area after exploitation is covered with green, some places are planted with industrial trees or restored native forests. Sludge is treated according to international standards, avoiding release into the environment.

Zircon Industry Association Delegation

Second is people. Hoang Long not only creates jobs for hundreds of local workers, but also focuses on training skills, improving living standards, and ensuring social security. We consider employees as assets of the enterprise.

In addition, we have a “Green Mining” fund to support reforestation and vegetation regeneration on mines after mining. Each hectare of restored land is a real commitment, not a slogan.

With the visit of the ZIA delegation, what do you expect for the Vietnamese titanium industry?

This is the first time ZIA has organized a conference and field survey in Vietnam.

That said, our titanium industry is being taken seriously on the world mining map.

The delegation assessed this as a European standard factory with a circulating water system.

We expect this event to open up international connections, helping the Vietnamese titanium industry gain deeper access to new technology, sustainable standards, and gradually join the global value chain with a higher position, not only as a raw material exporting country, but also as a strategic partner.

In the context of Vietnam promoting green economic development and energy transition, how do you see the role of the mining industry?

The mining industry is no exception. Minerals are the foundation of many green technologies – from new materials to battery storage to renewable energy.

The problem is not "whether to exploit or not", but "how to exploit properly".

Closed factory with no dust

Businesses that can do that will not only survive, but also play an active role in the national economic transformation.

In the process of building a sustainable development model, what is the biggest challenge that Hoang Long has faced, sir?

The biggest challenge is not technical, but mindset.

When we start talking about the environment and community in the mining industry, many people say it is a… “luxury”. But we persistently prove that investing in sustainability is investing in the future.

What was once considered a “luxury” has now become the norm.

It is known that Hoang Long also has many local support programs. Is this part of the sustainable development strategy?

Yes. Sustainable development is not only about the environment but also about people. We prioritize recruiting local workers and training new skills for young people in the mining area. Having a family with three generations working at Hoang Long is a great source of pride.

We also invest in public health , fund schools, and support people's livelihoods when projects impact their land.

Thank you sir.

On the afternoon of May 19, more than 40 international experts from the International Zircon Industry Association (ZIA) visited the mineral processing factory of Hoang Long Titanium Mineral Processing Joint Stock Company in Hon La Economic Zone, Quang Trach (Quang Binh).

This is the only field survey site in Vietnam within the framework of the ZIA 2025 Conference taking place from May 20 to 22 in Hanoi. ZIA highly appreciates the closed-loop mineral processing technology model, the circular waste treatment system and environmental protection solutions at the factory, criteria consistent with global ESG standards.

Titan Hoang Long is considered a typical example of shifting from exporting raw ore to deep processing, contributing to increasing the value of resources and sustainable development. Vietnam is identified as a country with rich potential for zircon - an important material in high-tech industry.

In addition to production, Titan Hoang Long is also recognized for social activities such as granting scholarships and restoring the environment after mining.

MINH PHONG

Source: https://www.sggp.org.vn/muon-lam-nganh-khai-khoang-hien-dai-phai-dat-moi-truong-va-con-nguoi-len-truoc-post795923.html