Objective:
The mandate was to assess the technical, commercial, and environmental viability of establishing the world’s first eco-friendly copper refinery in the United Kingdom. The project aimed to leverage innovative, low-carbon refining processes, align with the UK’s decarbonisation targets, and address both market demand and environmental stewardship.
Our approach
We undertook a comprehensive prefeasibility study structured around the PESTLE framework (Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Legal, and Environmental). The scope included:
Market & Supply-Demand Analysis:
Conducted a global copper market review, assessing current and projected supply-demand balances, price trends, and trade flows. Evaluated the UK’s position in the global copper value chain and potential for import substitution or export growth.Technology Benchmarking:
Compared conventional smelting/refining processes with next-generation eco-friendly technologies, focusing on energy efficiency, carbon emissions, waste management, and scalability. Analysed technology readiness levels, CAPEX/OPEX implications, and potential IP or licensing requirements.Site Suitability & GIS Modelling:
Applied advanced GIS-based modelling to shortlist optimal sites within the target UK region, integrating factors such as proximity to ports, grid connectivity, land availability, environmental constraints, and community acceptance. This spatial analysis incorporated regulatory buffers, environmental sensitivity layers, and logistical efficiencies.Regulatory & Stakeholder Landscape:
Reviewed applicable environmental and industrial regulations, permitting pathways, and incentives. Assessed potential socio-economic impacts including job creation, community engagement needs, and alignment with regional development plans.Financial & Scenario Modelling:
Built a detailed financial model with CAPEX, OPEX, and revenue forecasts, incorporating commodity price sensitivity scenarios, carbon pricing impacts, and potential green financing mechanisms.
Impact
The prefeasibility study equipped the client with a clear decision-making framework and actionable insights, including:
- A shortlist of high-potential sites ranked by technical feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and environmental impact.
- Technology selection guidance highlighting the most sustainable and economically viable refining processes.
- Financial projections with base, best-case, and downside sensitivity scenarios to inform investment strategy.
- A roadmap for partner engagement and regulatory approval, detailing key milestones, stakeholder management strategies, and funding opportunities.
By combining market intelligence, geospatial analysis, and sustainability metrics, the study positioned the client to emerge as a pioneer in low-carbon copper refining, capable of setting new industry benchmarks in environmental responsibility and operational efficiency.
