Catamarca mining waste accumulation raises environmental concerns

Increased extractive production in the Catamarca region of Argentina has sparked concerns regarding the management of hazardous substances. In mining complexes located in the Salar del Hombre Muerto and surrounding basins, the intensive use of industrial reagents for mineral purification has led to the accumulation of chemical effluents, reagents, and saline muds in open-air storage sites.

Researchers and local residents have warned that storing these effluents in evaporation ponds poses a significant risk of leakage into Catamarca’s underground aquifers. Environmental assemblies have reported a lack of high-complexity treatment plants near mining sites, forcing the storage of thousands of tons of unneutralized waste.

Local livestock producers in the Puna region have also expressed concern that temporary runoff could carry saline residues and chemical compounds into grazing streams, potentially degrading soil and vegetation. Meanwhile, critics have targeted the Ministry of Water, Energy and Environment, alleging a lack of independent sampling and failure to publish periodic reports on groundwater quality.