Antofagasta’s Zaldivar mine in Chile secures environmental approvals through 2028

Antofagasta plc receives green light from Chilean authorities, enabling continued operations at Zaldívar through 2051 and supporting long-term sustainability.

Antofagasta plc has confirmed that Chile’s Environmental Authority has approved the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for its Zaldívar mine, paving the way for a significant mine life extension and a sustainable transition in water sourcing. The formal Environmental Qualification Resolution (RCA) is expected to be issued in the coming days.

The approved EIA covers Zaldívar’s operational extension through 2051 and outlines a transition plan to shift from its current freshwater use to either desalinated seawater or a third-party water supply. This move is aligned with broader sustainability goals and addresses increasing environmental pressures on water resources in northern Chile.

The mine plan includes the extraction of current secondary sulphide ore reserves and opens the door, from a permitting standpoint, for future development of primary sulphide ore.

Zaldívar will continue using its existing water sources until 2028, while simultaneously evaluating the most efficient and environmentally responsible option for long-term water supply thereafter.

Antofagasta plc CEO, Iván Arriagada, highlighted the significance of the milestone:
“Following two years of permitting process, and through a detailed and proactive engagement with communities, government and other stakeholders, we have achieved a result that facilitates operational continuity and employment for our own and contractor workforce, as well as for numerous local businesses that support Zaldívar in its operations.

Looking forward, today’s announcement further derisks our business, allowing us to focus on realising Zaldívar’s full potential.”

The approval marks a critical step in ensuring both the economic viability and environmental responsibility of Zaldívar, a key operation in Antofagasta’s copper portfolio, and reinforces the Group’s commitment to sustainable mining practices in Chile.