OREANDA-NEWS. December 03, 2012. MMC Norilsk Nickel (further, the Company or MMC Norilsk Nickel) announces that the day before it was recognized as the Company of the Year in nomination “Metallurgy”. Developed in late 90s, the national award the Company of the Year proves to be a public institution which not only points out the best companies but creates a new image of Russian business and promotes new business ethics standards in our country, reported the press-centre of Norilsk Nickel. 

The award goes to the most brilliant and dynamic Russian market players making it possible to draw attention to successful strategies of those who managed to use to their benefit current economic situation and foresee major trends in the development of Russian economy. Event organizers and members of the expert council consider it their mission to award the companies which form a new image of Russian business.

The expert council recognized MMC Norilsk Nickel as the Company of the Year in metals industry as the most stable and at the same time rapidly developing market player complying with the global standards of corporate social responsibility, as was pointed out by the organizers at the award ceremony.

In 2012 MMC Norilsk Nickel proceeded to active implementation of the Company’s Production and Technical Development Strategy till 2025. By this time the Company targets to become one of the five global players in mining and metals sector in terms of its capitalization. Moreover, in 2012 the Company also launched a large-scale environmental project in Norilsk which will make it possible to ensure the disposal of no less than 95% of sulphur dioxide from off gases of the Company’s Polar Division’s metallurgical operations and reduce the environmental stress considerably. MMC Norilsk Nickel annually invests billions of roubles in solving environmental and social issues in the areas of its operation. The Company ensures co-financing of a long-term target program involving relocation of Norilsk and Dudinka citizens to the regions more favourable for living, construction of nursery schools, sports and social infrastructure in the regions of its operation and implementation of a wide range of other social programs.

At the same time, MMC Norilsk Nickel is increasing metals output and improving its position on the market while remaining the leading global nickel and palladium producer.