Chile's Capstone Mantos Blancos Mine Extends Environmental Review to 2041 with $500 Million Investment

en.Wedoany.com Reported - Capstone Copper's Mantos Blancos mine has submitted an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report to Chile's Environmental Impact Assessment System (SEIA) for the "Mantos Blancos Copper Mine Operational Continuity Improvement and Capacity Enhancement" project, which involves an estimated capital investment of approximately $500 million and aims to extend the mine's production life to 2041.

The project plans to increase sulfide ore processing capacity, undertake modifications and new construction for tailings deposition and transport processes, while continuing the leaching and processing of oxide ore. It is estimated that the construction phase will create approximately 900 jobs, with over 3,000 positions maintained during the operational phase, along with supporting local contractors, suppliers, and related service activities.

Mantos Blancos General Manager Jaime Rivera stated that the project is a key step in planning the mine's future and extending its operations. The mine has been operating in the Antofagasta region for 65 years, with 92% of its employees residing in the area, demonstrating the strong connection between operations and the local community.

The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) considers a new mining phase for the Santa Barbara open pit, planning to maintain sulfide ore processing at 7.3 million tons per year until 2030, then gradually increasing to 9.85 million tons per year between 2031 and 2041. Meanwhile, the oxide ore processing capacity of the SX/EW plant will be maintained, with the addition of a new mineral leaching stage.

The plan also includes a series of measures to strengthen operational environmental management, with a focus on air quality and hydrogeology, including dust emission control, street paving in the town of Baquedano, participatory green space development, and hydrogeological analysis and management measures related to the mine's historical operations. Additionally, the project incorporates voluntary environmental commitments covering community relationship building, environmental education and outreach, labor linkage programs, and community projects at the regional level.

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