Korea Zinc's U.S. project clears environmental impact assessment

Korea Zinc, the world's largest refined zinc smelter, has received an environmental impact assessment approval for its $7.4 billion US manufacturing project, Project Crucible. The approval is expected to expedite the construction of the critical metals refinery in Clarksville, Tennessee, with test operations slated to begin in 2029 and commercial production of 11 core minerals, 12 nonferrous metals, and semiconductor-grade sulfuric acid in the following year.

The project is the first FAST-41 project approved by the Federal Permitting Improvement Steering Council since Korea Zinc signed a memorandum of understanding with Tennessee in May. Tennessee Governor Bill Lee welcomed the designation, stating that it will accelerate critical infrastructure development and improve government efficiency.

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