The Environmental Monitoring Program at PSJ Cobre Mendocino is structured to ensure comprehensive oversight throughout the life of the project. Each monitoring plan includes the purpose of monitoring, specific locations and frequency of sampling, the parameters to be measured, the methods used, comparisons to legal standards, and references to historical baseline data.
Water monitoring focuses on both surface and groundwater, ensuring compliance with quality standards established by the General Department of Irrigation. It includes analysis of heavy metals in accordance with national regulations. Soil monitoring is conducted periodically to identify any signs of contamination or degradation and is guided by previous baseline studies. Air monitoring covers the measurement of particulate matter, such as PM10 and PM2.5, and includes diagrams that outline the sources and flow of emissions and chemical compounds.
The program is designed to allow real-time tracking and auditability by the Mining Environmental Authority (AAM), enabling proactive responses to environmental changes. Supporting this system are engineering controls including subdrainage layers, water collection channels, evaporation and recovery ponds, and a network of piezometers and monitoring wells to detect and manage any environmental risks.
All data collected through these monitoring activities are integrated into the project’s Environmental Management Plan (EMP), ensuring that operational decisions are informed by up-to-date and accurate environmental conditions. This comprehensive approach reflects PSJ’s commitment to environmental responsibility and regulatory compliance.