Codelco's Sustainable Water Project in Chile

SANTIAGO (Reuters) – Chile's state copper giant Codelco has applied for an environmental permit for a $650 million project aimed at making water use in its Andina mine more sustainable.

The plan involves funneling water from the mine's Ovejeria tailings and other sources to the concentrator plant in its Andina division, which is approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles) away, to achieve more efficient and sustainable water use.

> "This allows us to keep reducing our environmental footprint and confront the consequences of climate change," stated Lindor Quiroga, general manager of Andina, in a Tuesday statement.

Faced with increased pressure from global clients seeking sustainable mining practices and the challenges of water scarcity, Codelco has implemented various initiatives to enhance sustainability.

The Andina project, located in central Chile, has been impacted by a decade of drought and will require a maximum of 1,650 workers, with an estimated completion time of 36 months.