New Tin Mine: Saxore and Wismut Explore Collaboration

The mining company Saxore is moving forward with its plans for a tin mine in the Tellerhäuser area and is relying on a partnership with the mining rehabilitation company Wismut. According to a press release, the initial plan is for a two-and-a-half-year pilot phase to develop concrete approaches for cooperation. This will involve the exchange of geological information and expertise, as well as a plan for the future closure and post-closure management of the proposed mine. In addition, the companies will examine whether mining infrastructure could be shared.

Saxore is planning a new mine near Rittersgrün in the Ore Mountains. Based on studies to date, the company estimates that 138,000 metric tons of tin are deposited there. Other raw materials, such as indium, are also present. With more than 700 metric tons, Tellerhäuser ranks among the world’s most significant indium resources, according to the company. However, it is likely to be years before the ore can be mined. According to Saxore, the framework operating plan is currently under review by the State Mining Authority. Once it is approved, additional applications for detailed operating plans will be required.

Wismut has decades of experience in mine remediation

“Our experience from more than three decades of remediation and post-closure care shows that you shouldn’t wait until mining is complete to start thinking about the end of a mine,” explains Wismut Managing Director Michael Paul. “Responsible post-closure care begins as early as the planning stage.” His company intends to contribute this experience and expertise to its collaboration with Saxore.

During the GDR era, Wismut mined uranium in Saxony and Thuringia, leaving behind immense environmental damage. With German reunification, it became federally owned and has since been remediating these contaminated sites at a cost of billions. According to the information provided, Saxore’s Rittersgrün permit area partially overlaps with Wismut’s mining property. Wismut once operated a uranium mine in Pöhla.