Managing safe removal of hazardous waste in Chile
At a glance
GHD developed the feasibility study for the construction of Cell 3 of the Hazardous Industrial Waste Deposit (DRISP) at the EcoMetales plant, located in the north of Chile (Región de Antofagasta). This work complemented the previous environmental analysis and identify the permits and regulatory updates required to develop a safe and sustainable design.
The challenge
EcoMetales processes arsenic-bearing dust from the Chuquicamata smelter through leaching, stabilizing arsenic as scorodite. The challenge was to expand the capacity of the deposit to safely dispose of these hazardous residues under strict environmental conditions, complying with current regulations and providing operational continuity in a context of high regulatory demands and strong sustainability commitments.
Our response
The construction of Cell 3 increased the plant’s processing capacity, allowing for the safe disposal of stabilised arsenic and antimony. This project directly contributes to sustainability in the mining industry by reducing environmental risks and protecting nearby communities. It also strengthens EcoMetales’ strategy for managing hazardous waste responsibly and in alignment with international standards.
The impact
GHD brought its expertise in engineering and environmental management to deliver a comprehensive solution that included technical design, regulatory analysis and impact assessment. Our approach combined innovation with regulatory compliance, enabling the DRISP expansion to be executed under the highest safety and sustainability standards, reaffirming our commitment to the mining industry and environmental stewardship.