LKAB's construction of a sorting plant for apatite-rich tailings at its Malmberget operation in Sweden is part of a broader effort to recover phosphate from mining residues. The project was under construction as of late August 2026.
Apatite is a primary source of phosphate, which is essential for fertilizers and industrial chemicals. Europe has limited domestic phosphate resources and relies heavily on imports from regions including North Africa and Russia. Recovering apatite from iron ore tailings could provide a domestic source of phosphate while reducing waste volumes. The project reflects growing interest in circular economy approaches to critical raw materials.
