In a recent operation carried out in Mendoza, two mines in Maipú have been notified of the order to cease activities until they comply with the requirements outlined in environmental regulations and the instructions of the Environmental Mining Police (PAM). This action is part of a comprehensive strategy aimed at regulating mining activities in the region and ensuring compliance with the New Mining Procedure Code approved in 2024.
The Tax Law of 2025 in Mendoza establishes severe economic sanctions for those who do not respect mining and environmental regulations, including environmental impact declarations. With these measures, the province reaffirms its commitment to sustainable, transparent mining that aligns with quality and environmental protection standards at both national and international levels.
To ensure a more transparent, professional, and secure mining sector, the regulations have set new administrative and structural standards, granting greater powers to the Environmental Mining Police, with the aim of ensuring compliance with current regulations.
The Environmental Mining Police has the authority to inspect both underground and surface operations, including equipment, machinery, processing plants, and mineral transportation. Additionally, the number of inspectors will be increased and new delegations will be established in different areas of the province, such as the High Mountain and Uco Valley.
The inspectors of the Environmental Mining Police can access all mining facilities to supervise compliance with environmental, safety, and hygiene regulations. During inspections conducted at 17 category three mines in the central area of the province, irregularities were detected that require immediate correction, in addition to verifying documentation and compliance with current regulations.
Among the functions of the Environmental Mining Police are the detection and remediation of irregularities, verification of regulatory and documentary compliance, as well as promoting good practices to ensure quality, labor safety, and environmental protection in mining activities.
As part of the action plan for the current year, advanced technologies will be implemented to improve inspections, such as management software, specialized instruments, and surveillance systems. Additionally, audits of environmental impact declarations will be conducted, and tasks will be coordinated with the Environmental Management Unit to ensure rigorous compliance with ISO regulations.
In conclusion, these actions aim to strengthen compliance with environmental and mining regulations in Mendoza, ensuring responsible, safe mining activity in accordance with international quality standards, with the objective of protecting the environment and ensuring the sustainability of this activity in the region.
