Environment

PSJ Cobre Mendocino’s environmental strategy is built around proactive, science-based, and transparent practices that comply with both national law and international best practices. Here are the key components:

Closed-Loop System: Uses a highly efficient water recirculation circuit, minimizing withdrawal from natural sources and avoiding competition with other users.
Monitoring Wells and Controls: Includes piezometers, drainage layers, water recovery channels, and a real-time monitoring network to prevent and detect contamination.
Water Source: Draws 141 liters/sec from the underused Arroyo El Tigre, ensuring no impact on community or agricultural water needs.

Thickened Tailings Technology: Reduces moisture content to limit infiltration and acid rock drainage (ARD) risks.
Environmental Controls: Includes subdrain systems and lined ponds for residual or contact water. Contingency plans are in place for post-closure management.
Operational Monitoring: Routine geotechnical inspections, piezometer readings, and performance reviews.
Progressive Rehabilitation: Concurrent contouring, cover placement, and revegetation to stabilize landforms.

Environmental Monitoring Programs: Include systematic tracking of air quality, soil health, and noise/vibration levels. Each program follows legal benchmarks and baseline data.
Risk Assessment: Studies on dust and vibration impacts on the community have been conducted, and preventive measures are in place.

Scientific Studies: Conducted in limnology, glaciology, ecohydrology, and local flora and fauna to guide impact mitigation.
Land Use: Only 3% of legally owned land is used, with no nearby communities affected by dust, noise, or material transport

Hydrological Modeling: Developed from 15 regional weather stations to predict seasonal flows and water balance, aiding in climate resilience and safety planning.
Geo-structural Protections: Use of shotcrete and other engineering barriers in fault areas to prevent water seepage into pits.