현대제철 통합보고서

Since 2010, Hyundai Steel has been monitoring ecotoxicity to minimize the impact on aquatic ecosystems from the wastewater discharged directly into the ocean from our sites. We have independently established ‘work standards' for testing water quality that conform to the ‘heavy metal toxicity testing method using water fleas' as a standard method under Article 6 of the ‘Environmental Testing and Inspection Act'. These ecotoxicity assessments are conducted on a monthly basis. Also, we carry out annual independent risk assessment, and make efforts to improve the reliability of our testing processes. Furthermore, we operate a dedicated ecotoxicity testing lab where a constant temperature can be maintained and lighting can be adjusted, and we cultivate our own water fleas to ensure a stable supply for testing. In 2020, the ecotoxicity of wastewater discharged from the Dangjin Integrated Steelworks was below TU 1.0¹⁾ thus meeting legal standards. Through these measures, we are able to systematically manage our wastewater treatment facilities to minimize the impact of the Danjin Integrated Steelworks on nearby marine ecosystems, thereby leading the way in protecting the biological diversity of aquatic ecosystems.

Hyundai Steel assesses ecological impact in the vicinity of our business sites, including the Dangjin Steelworks(785.5 hectares), our largest business site, as part of our continuous efforts to manage the ecosystem. The ecological impact assessment focuses on the air environment(air quality), water environment(surface/underground water quality), land environment(soil), and living environment(noise, vibration, waste). In 2020, we conducted quarterly assessments that formed the basis for establishing and implementing action plans to improve environmental facilities with the goal of minimizing our impact on the ecosystems near our business sites.

In order to preserve these ecosystems, we monitor the number and population of species(mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, insects, land plants, seaweeds, etc.) that inhabit the areas near our business sites, including three types of legally protected species²⁾. We also plan to establish and implement a plan to build an ecological park by 2022, which will include green areas to protect wildlife habitats. In addition, we are striving to disclose environmental issues to the public. For example, we opened the “Environmental Issues Reporting Desk” to collect opinions from local residents, and are operating the “Environment Improvement Council” through public-private sector cooperation.