Insight
The awakening of a dormant challenge: water management in the copper-mining industry
*Please note that this report only includes an Excel data file if this is indicated in "What's included" below
Report summary
The copper mining industry is facing now another challenge: the use, management and disposal of water resources. Water is presenting itself as one of the biggest constraints for product supply throughout the mining industry. From supply origin, management to discharge, there are political, environmental, economic and social repercussions, all of which with enough degree of complexity to prevent a project from happening or suspend an ongoing operation.
Table of contents
- Executive summary
- Why is water a challenge if it is a 'free and abundant' resource?
- Dealing with the water issue: a closer look at a mining country
- Efforts towards a sustainable mining operation: change of mindset and willingness to invest
- Confronting the issue will yield better long-term results than pretending it is not there
Tables and charts
This report includes the following images and tables:
- Water consumption according to source and process (only surface water) 2012-2016
- Total water consumption in Chile's copper-mining industry 2012-2016
- Summary of main desalination plants in Chile designed for mining companies
- Demand for mined copper (refined basis)
What's included
This report contains:
