Chile Takes Legal Action Against Anglo American Over Environmental Breaches at Los Bronces Mine

Anglo American

Chile's environmental authority, SMA (Superintendencia del Medio Ambiente), has initiated legal proceedings against the Anglo American-operated Los Bronces copper mine, citing significant non-compliance with environmental regulations. This move underscores increasing regulatory scrutiny on mining operations in one of the world's largest copper-producing countries.

Charges and Compliance Failures

The environmental superintendency has filed four charges related to the mine's handling of waste and tailings management systems, particularly at the Donoso Norte Waste Dump and the Las Tortolas tailings dam's infiltration control system. The allegations include the improper management of acid drainage at the waste disposal site, insufficient restitution measures for acid water collected downstream, and failure to implement adequate infiltration control measures. Furthermore, Anglo American is accused of not submitting required environmental data within the stipulated deadlines.

These breaches could lead to fines amounting to as much as 17 billion Chilean pesos (approximately $17.2 million USD), marking a significant financial penalty should the charges hold in proceedings. Anglo American has been given up to 15 business days to present a compliance program and 22 business days to prepare its defense.

Operational Status and Company Response

Despite the legal challenges, Anglo American has stated that operations at Los Bronces continue as usual. The company is currently reviewing the SMA's resolution to determine appropriate next steps and maintains that although the Donoso dump is not in use, it has implemented effective transitory measures for controlling contact waters.

Los Bronces, an important open-cut copper and molybdenum mine located in Chile's metropolitan region, plays a critical role in the local and global copper market. It reported a production of over 215,500 metric tonnes of copper in 2023, according to Anglo American's website. The mine's significant output and expected lifespan of 30 years highlight its importance, not just to Anglo American but to the global copper supply chain.