Law 20551 to regulate closure of mining facilities

In 2011, Law 20551 was approved by the Chilean Congress to regulate the closure of mining operations and related facilities in order to reduce the associated negative environmental impacts. 

Consequently, prior to starting activities in a specific territory, the mining entity must present to the Chilean National Geology and Mining Service with a Mining Operation Closure Plan. The Plan must describe technical measures and activities that the entity will carry out from the beginning of operations to prevent, minimise or control the risks and negative effects of mining on people’s lives - especially regarding population directly and immediately adjacent to the territory.
Also, the Mining Operation Closure Plan must include measures to mitigate the effects of the negative operation on the environment. These measures must ensure the physical and chemical stability of the area where mining activity takes place.

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