In the heart of Peru's Moquegua region lies Quellaveco, a mine that is rewriting the narrative of responsible mining.
Supporting safety and efficiency
At Quellaveco, our copper mine in Peru, safety takes precedence.
The remote Integrated Operations Centre has revolutionised the mining process. Here, real-time data is collected, future scenarios are visualised, and a fleet of 30 automated mining trucks is operated at a safe distance, mitigating potential hazards.
Technologies also include six remote-controlled blasthole drilling machines, capable of drilling a 16-meter hole in just 12–15 minutes, a significant improvement over conventional drills. This forward-thinking, lower-risk approach not only sets the stage for the future of mining but also positions Quellaveco as a hub for digital mining expertise, creating digital mining experts who can in turn educate others around the world.
Clean water and community well-being
As Quellaveco extracts copper from the Peruvian soil, it is equally committed to replenishing the communities that surround it.
In the towns of Carumas, Cuchumbaya, Pocata, Coscore, and Tala, Quellaveco is actively addressing the need for clean drinking water. The responsibility to these communities is met with the implementation of a modern treatment plant in Tala, powered entirely by renewable solar energy.
This plant has already produced over one million litres of water, marking a significant milestone in providing access to clean water. The vision for the future involves installing several more treatment plants, operated by the communities themselves, aiming to bring clean drinking water to nearly 2,000 people, bridging gaps in water and sanitation.
Beyond mining operations
The Quellaveco Fund, established in 2011, is a testament to our commitment to community well-being. This fund, designed to finance sustainable development projects, has already subsidised 51 local initiatives.
These range from education and health to nutrition and agriculture and include establishing over 20 entrepreneurial networks to sell agricultural products like avocado and oregano. This support has translated into tangible benefits for local producers, with olive producers from Ilo Valley experiencing a remarkable 65% increase in income. Similarly, water optimisation techniques introduced in Omate have boosted grape vine yields by three tonnes per hectare, reflecting a substantial 60% increase.
As the first digital mine in Peru, Quellaveco is setting new standards, illustrating that responsible mining is not only possible but can be a catalyst for positive change, innovation, and lasting community impact.