The environmental impact assessment, created for a plant, which is planned to be constructed in the area east of Sorsasalo in Kuopio, contains researched information on the regional impacts of the construction and operations of a pulp mill. Additionally, the report covers closely related operations, such as the construction of a new wastewater treatment plant in the area, together with the necessary roads and rail connections.
Prior to commencing the process of acquiring the necessary environmental permits, the goal of the implemented environmental impact assessment is to clarify how the planned investment would change the habitats and natural values in the area.
Based on expert statements, the impact assessment details the effects of the mill on the area's waterways, air quality and nature. It also entails reports on the effects of operations on the daily lives of the people inhabiting the area, regional traffic, noise level and the visual landscape of Sorsasalo.
The report states that the environmental impacts of Finnpulp's facility project on the waterways, air and noise level are manageable. The ecological waterway rating of Kallavesi will remain at good level regardless of increased eutrophication in Kelloselkä. The facility area will, to an extent, increase the noise level at the residential and recreational areas located on the shore of Virtasalmi but noise pollution is otherwise minimal. The planned bioproduct mill's impact on air quality is low.
As the natural impacts were assessed, it became clear that there is no exceptionally valuable nature or biota requiring protection in the area. Recreational activities in the area are expected to remain at their current level. There will be some reduction in the presence of ice in Kelloselkä in the winter time.
In addition to experts, local residents were consulted during the research phase. 327 residence survey responses were received by the deadline. During the autumn, two events open to the public and two small discussion group sessions were held with the operators in the area.
Finnpulp is a special purpose company solely founded to manage the investment of a new world class soft wood pulp mill in Finland.
