Novolipetsk Steel has begun work on the next stage of the reconstruction of the gas exhaust ducts of its BOFs system, which is aimed at enhancing the reliability of the lines and reducing their environmental impact.  

The implementation of this project at the main Lipetsk site will allow the company to reduce emissions generated in the steelmaking process by 59%.

In June 2009, NLMK upgraded the equipment of BOF-1. In order to upgrade the equipment of BOF-2, under existing production conditions, over 1,500 tonnes of steel structures will be assembled within 108 days and then work will begin at BOF-3.

Completion of the upgrading works, carried out by NLMK and Siemens VAI in the framework of the Technical Upgrade Program, is scheduled for 2010.  

NLMK allocated over RUR 2.6 bn to environmental protection measures in 2008. The environmental management system of NLMK is certified as complying with the requirements of the international standard ISO 14001-2004. In 2008 the company successfully passed a re-certification audit of the Environmental Management System conducted by TUV CERT certification authority (Germany).