Peru’s Minister Urges Integrated Mining Operations for Sustainability

Energy and Mines Minister Jorge Montero encourages investors to integrate mining operations for sustainability, citing successful models from British Columbia. He discussed investment opportunities in strategic minerals and the importance of seawater desalination to minimize conflict with communities. Montero’s discussions with Mongolia’s officials aim to foster foreign investment in Peru’s mining sector.

Peru’s Energy and Mines Minister Jorge Montero urged global investors to focus on the integration of mining operations to promote sustainability within the sector. He delivered this message during his presentation, “Mining in Peru: A New Vision,” at the Peru Day event.

Minister Montero called for the replication of successful mining models such as those in British Columbia, Canada, emphasizing collaborative practices among mining operations in the same territories. He also discussed revamping metallurgical activities by investing in strategic minerals found in polymetallic and copper concentrates.

During his meetings with Nexa Resources executives, Montero was briefed on the progress of integrating El Porvenir and Atacocha mining operations in Pasco, Peru. Furthermore, they highlighted efforts to extend the lifespan of the Cerro Lindo unit, which utilizes desalinated seawater sourced from 60 kilometers away.

Minister Montero expressed his interest in visiting the Cajamarquilla refinery, Peru’s leading producer of refined zinc, to gain insight into initiatives that add value to local minerals. He engaged with Tsevegdorj Tuvaan, head of Mongolia’s Ministry of Industry and Natural Resources, who expressed interest in Peru’s mining landscape and its foreign investment potential.

The Minister emphasized the importance of seawater desalination to mitigate conflicts between mining companies and local communities. He remarked that a territorial perspective is crucial for the mining sector, urging companies to engage with local territories beyond their individual projects. He welcomed future Mongolian investments in Peru and supported a delegation of Peruvian mining businessmen visiting Mongolia to explore opportunities.

In summary, Minister Jorge Montero’s address highlighted the need for integrated mining operations to ensure sustainability, drawing inspiration from successful models in other regions. Through strategic investments and collaboration, Peru aims to enhance its metallurgical activities and attract foreign interest, particularly from Mongolia. Furthermore, the focus on seawater desalination reflects a commitment to harmonizing mining practices with community needs.

Original Source: andina.pe