The Threat to Boundary Waters of the Superior National Forest: Antofagasta PLC's Environmental Impact

The Boundary Waters of the Superior National Forest in Minnesota is a critical ecological and cultural treasure. However, a growing threat looms on its horizon - Antofagasta PLC, a mining giant with a dubious environmental and social history. This article delves into the potential dangers posed by Antofagasta and its subsidiary, Twin Metals Minnesota, as they seek renewal of their mining leases on National Forest lands nearby the Boundary Waters.

Antofagasta PLC: A Company With a Troubled Environmental Past

Antofagasta PLC stands out as the chief threat to the Boundary Waters. Based in Chile, Antofagasta is the ninth-largest copper mining company in the world. Unfortunately, its operations have a track record of harming both the environment and local communities. This section details why Antofagasta should not be entrusted with safeguarding the health and safety of the Boundary Waters.

Cultural and Environmental Destruction in Chile

In Chile, the company has proven itself a significant threat to both culture and environment. Antofagasta's extensive mining operations have resulted in:

Loss of cultural heritage: After excavating more than 500 boulders containing 2000 petroglyphs, a pre-Columbian cemetery, and archaeological sites, Antofagasta buried these historical treasures to build the El Mauro tailings dam. The Chilean Archaeological Society has branded this incident the biggest loss of cultural heritage in the country's recent history. Water pollution and community health: The company was found guilty by the Chilean Supreme Court for polluting the groundwater of a community and blocking their primary water supply, a crucial source for daily life. Environmental violations and high toxic spill records: Antofagasta faced nearly a $25 million fine and the closure of its largest copper mine in Chile due to multiple environmental permit violations, including severe water pollution. Additionally, the company is responsible for the highest number of toxic spills in the Coquimbo region, with one incident dumping 13,000 liters of copper concentrate into a river.

Additional Environmental and Social Concerns

Antofagasta also faces accusations of:

Tax fraud Water privatization in desert regions, which deprives many poor and indigenous families of their traditional water sources Partnership with some of Chile's wealthiest families who control powerful corporations like The Bank of Chile Providing special housing benefits to US political figures like Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner Suing the United States for the renewal of its mineral leases near the Boundary Waters

Antofagasta's activities have raised concerns about the copper mining industry's long history of acid mine drainage and heavy metal leaching. These practices can have catastrophic environmental impacts, particularly on water sources. The environmental reviews that could prevent such harm were canceled shortly after Trump took office, prioritizing granting Antofagasta's land rights.

The Potential Devastation to the Boundary Waters

The presence of Antofagasta near the Boundary Waters poses a significant risk of environmental degradation. The region and its watershed are already protected, but granting Antofagasta renewed mining leases could lead to severe consequences for water quality, wildlife, and local communities. The public and four Chippewa tribes have strong opposition to these plans.

The region will undoubtedly suffer irreparable damage under the influence of companies like Antofagasta, which prioritizes profit over environmental and community welfare.