Chile’s Superintendency of the Environment (SMA) has filed serious environmental charges against Anglo American Sur, the local division of Anglo American, over alleged violations at the El Soldado copper mine. These charges, which have been classified as “serious,” could result in significant penalties, including the potential revocation of the mine’s environmental permit, closure, or a fine exceeding 12 billion pesos ($12.4 million).
The allegations stem from several environmental issues, including an incomplete drainage system that has caused water management problems at the mine. Additionally, Anglo American is accused of failing to notify the SMA about these issues or establish a proper maintenance plan. Another major concern raised by the SMA is the company’s inadequate monitoring of the vulnerable local frog species, ‘Sapo rulo,’ which has a population of only 3,867.
In response, Anglo American has stated that it is working to address the raised concerns and has communicated its actions to the regulator. The company is seeking a meeting with environmental officials to discuss further steps.
The El Soldado mine, the smallest of Anglo American’s copper operations in Chile, produced 35,700 tonnes of copper from January to September this year. Anglo American is committed to complying with all environmental regulations and working closely with the authority to resolve these issues.
The SMA conducted the audit in collaboration with Chile’s water, geology, and fishing agencies. Anglo American now has 15 days to submit a compliance plan and 22 days to present a defense against the charges.
