Codelco Invests $650 Million in Sustainable Water Project

Codelco, Chile’s state-owned copper mining company, has submitted an environmental permit application for a $650 million project aimed at enhancing water sustainability at its Andina mine.

The project involves redirecting water from the mine’s Ovejeria tailings to the concentrator plant, located approximately 70 kilometers away. This innovative approach will improve water efficiency and reduce the mine’s environmental impact.

“This project will enhance the availability of water resources by implementing a sustainable alternative that addresses the region’s water scarcity situation. This allows us to continue reducing our environmental footprint and to confront the consequences of climate change,” explained Lindor Quiroga Bugueño, General Manager of Codelco Andina.

As global demand for sustainable mining practices grows and water resources become increasingly scarce, Codelco is committed to operating responsibly. The Andina mine, located in central Chile, has been particularly affected by prolonged drought conditions.

The project is expected to create up to 1,650 jobs and take approximately 36 months to complete.