Can you describe the primary services offered by Encon Laboratory?

Our laboratory offers a wide range of environmental monitoring and analysis services, including air, water, soil, waste, and noise testing. We started as a consulting firm that utilized university monitoring and analysis services for our projects. However, we later decided to establish our own laboratory in 2006 to meet the growing demand for laboratory services. In 2014, we added acid rock drainage analysis to our portfolio, followed by geochemical analysis in 2017. We are also accredited to provide carbon and sulfur measurements.

How does Encon Laboratory measure acid rock drainage, and why did the company decide to offer this service?

Acid mine drainage measurement is a relatively new service in Turkey. In 2015, the Ministry of Environment and Urbanization introduced a new regulation mandating that mining waste’s acid-producing capacity should be defined for any mining project. To measure potential environmental damage from acid mine drainage, drill samples are taken, and static and kinetic tests are performed. Static tests replicate natural conditions, and if there is an issue, kinetic tests, which last six months to a year, are conducted. We use US and European standards to measure sulfur, carbon, and other parameters required for the static tests.

What kind of support does Encon provide for sludge analysis?

We are involved in EU-funded projects that provide technical assistance and construction supervision for waste treatment plants throughout Turkey. Our consulting arm provides sludge and wastewater management plans, while our laboratory offers sludge analysis services. We usually provide a package of services to companies that encompass both consulting and laboratory services.

How does Encon Laboratory plan to grow its business in the coming years?

Our primary focus for the next two to three years will be to compete in the Turkish market. However, we see opportunities in international projects, particularly in Central Asian Turkic countries, mining projects in North Africa, and EU-funded projects in the Balkans. We plan to establish two liaison offices, one in the Balkans (possibly Romania or Montenegro) and one in Azerbaijan or Kazakhstan. We are still conducting feasibility studies on this plan.