Codelco Seeks Environmental Permit for $650 Million Water Project to Enhance Sustainability

Codelco

Codelco, the Chilean state-owned copper mining giant, is seeking an environmental permit for a significant $650 million project aimed at improving water sustainability in its operations. The project, designed to enhance water usage efficiency at Codelco's Andina division, represents a substantial step towards reducing the environmental footprint of the company's copper mining operations.

Key Details of the Water Sustainability Project

The proposed project involves pumping water from the Ovejería tailings dam, as well as additional water sources, to the Andina concentrator plant. The distance between the tailings dam and the plant is approximately 70 kilometers (about 43 miles). The water will be transported via an underground pipeline, passing through several municipalities along the route, including Tiltil, Colina, Calle Larga, and Los Andes.

In total, the project will include the construction of three pumping stations along the pipeline route. Codelco estimates that the entire construction process will take around three years to complete.

Environmental Benefits and Water Scarcity Concerns

This project is part of Codelco's broader strategy to mitigate its environmental impact while addressing the ongoing water scarcity issues in the region. Chile, particularly in mining-heavy areas like Andina, faces significant challenges related to water availability, making this initiative a critical step in ensuring that Codelco's operations remain sustainable in the long term.

The Andina division, which operates both the Río Blanco underground mine and the Sur Sur open-pit mine, is a key part of Codelco's overall copper production. By reducing its reliance on external water sources and improving the efficiency of water use, the project aims to contribute to both environmental sustainability and the long-term viability of Codelco's mining operations.

Codelco's commitment to reducing its environmental footprint is further underscored by its efforts to develop infrastructure that minimizes the impact of its mining activities on local ecosystems and communities. The project also supports the company's strategy to ensure that water, a vital resource for mining, is used responsibly and efficiently.