Three years after the definitive closure of its controversial Pascua Lama open-pit mine, Canadian mining giant Barrick Gold has returned to Chile’s Atacama Region. The company has filed a new Environmental Impact Declaration for an exploration project called “Minera El Alto”, aiming to evaluate the potential for renewed mining operations in the same mountainous region.
Background: Pascua Lama’s Closure
The Pascua Lama project, located in the Alto del Carmen area, was permanently shut down in 2022 by Chile’s Environmental Superintendency (SMA) and the Supreme Court after years of uncertainty. The decision was based on 33 environmental violations, including serious breaches of ecological standards, leading to a fine exceeding CLP $7 billion (approx. USD $8 million).
Minera El Alto: A Second Attempt
In March 2025, Barrick submitted a new project proposal under the name “Minera El Alto”, focusing on mineral exploration rather than immediate exploitation. The first stage involves deep drilling to assess mineral reserves—especially diamond core samples—across 212 hectares in Alto del Carmen. The company plans to install 43 drilling platforms with an investment estimated at USD $35 million.
Barrick has emphasized its commitment to environmental responsibility, promising that the new works will be carried out with advanced technologies and ecological safeguards. The exploration is expected to last two years.
“Over recent years, we’ve focused on building a transparent relationship with the community. We’ve taken part in rebuilding trust. Now is the time,” said Marcelo Álvarez, Executive Director of Government Affairs at Barrick South America.
Environmental Oversight Begins
On March 19, the company formally filed its Environmental Impact Declaration (DIA). Shortly thereafter, inspectors from the Atacama regional office of the Environmental Superintendency visited the proposed exploration area.
The site visit included representatives from:
Barrick Gold Environmental administrative bodies (OAECA) Chile’s National Forestry Corporation (Conaf) The Municipality of Alto del Carmen, including Mayor Cristian Olivares
This early engagement signals a more collaborative and transparent approach compared to the troubled legacy of Pascua Lama.
Context for Minener Readers
Barrick Gold’s renewed interest in the Andean highlands reflects a broader trend of repositioning and remediation among multinational miners operating in sensitive ecosystems. With Chile’s critical minerals gaining global attention, exploration is expected to intensify—but under tighter scrutiny and higher environmental standards.
