Commitment to local communities
The project site covers an area of 500 km². Few people live on this arid plateau. The closest puesto family settlement, named Pampa Ciénaga, is 11km away from the plant. The nearest village, Santa Rosa de los Pastos Grandes, with a population of 260 people, is located 74 kilometres away. Eramine has engaged in dialogue with the inhabitants from the exploration phase onward.
Respectful dialogue with the local indigenous community is part of a process called Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC). It ensures the locals are regularly updated on the project's progress over the course of frequent consultations. Eramine has documented all community engagement activities since the start of exploration, including during the development of the environmental and social impact assessment.
An awareness program regarding FPIC (Free Prior and Informed Consent) rights was launched to ensure everyone understood what was involved in setting up the industrial complex. At the same time, a complaints mechanism was set up. FPIC is a key part of the Initiative for Responsible Mining (IRMA Mining Standard), to which Eramet is committed. Eramet's Human Rights policy pledges to respect and preserve the traditions and cultures of indigenous communities.
Eramine is committed to ensuring transparency in the management of the project's impacts, particularly with regard to the environment, which is crucial, particularly when it comes to establishing a climate of trust with the communities and authorities in Salta. In compliance with provincial legislation, Participatory Environmental Monitoring is carried out once a year, with the participation of the enforcement authorit and community representatives.
Eramine has also spearheaded initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for residents in la Puna. More than 140 individuals now have access to solar water heaters, ensuring they stay warm during the harsh winter months. Furthermore, 66 micro-entrepreneurs from the area have been trained with the necessary skills and networks to thrive, contributing to local economic development and self-sufficiency. In addition, Eramine has launched development aid programmes as far away as the provincial capital Salta.
