Newmont and Barrick Alliance to Persist with Chile Gold-Copper Project Despite Setback in the Court

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The partnership between world’s leading miners Newmont Corporation and Barrick Gold announced its decision to pursue development of Norte Abierto gold-copper project in Chile, despite setback in country’s court last week. The project, located in the Andes Mountains, is said to have proven and probable reserves of 23.2 million ounces of gold and 5.8 billion pounds of copper.

A Chilean environmental court had ordered a fresh evaluation of the project on concerns over heavy traffic and water consumption causing disruption of life for the nearby indigenous community. It expressed fears that the project could significantly alter the way of life and customs of the Colla indigenous community living in the rquera River valley and along its tributaries.

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In a statement, the court’s Judge Mauricio Oviedo noted that there is a clear overlap between the project and the lands and activities of the Colla community. Furthermore, he cited high probability for the project causing disturbances in the community, since it is located in the place where they carry out seasonal grazing activities and the collection of medicinal herbs.

The statement issued by the company said that it respects the court’s decision as well as the indigenous stakeholders.