Enrique Garay, advisory member of the 13th International Congress of Prospectors and Explorers, proEXPLO 2023, said that new copper exploration initiatives represent 47.6% of the Ministry of Energy and Mines' portfolio of mining exploration projects.

When consulted by La Noticia Perú, he remarked that Peru must take advantage of its position as the world's second largest copper producer to promote the discovery of deposits that meet the demand for this mineral, which is critical for the transition to a clean and reliable energy matrix.

Under this scenario, he considered it appropriate to encourage the discovery of silver deposits, since between 2 to 3 ounces of the metal is used for the manufacture of batteries, and its consumption will be much higher compared to what was required by the photographic industry at the beginning of the last century.

Likewise, he stated that the electrified automotive fleet is the main lithium, cobalt and nickel requirer, so it is urgent to continue the research studies of potential mining areas in our country, where there are currently preliminary advances.

"We have a significant lithium anomaly in the south, which must be understood, developed and tested with the technological solution for optimal recovery. In addition, there are probably cobalt and nickel occurrences in the eastern cordillera, but more research is needed," he stated.

Environmental permit takes up to 24 months

On the other hand, Enrique Garay commented that the incorporation of new provisions to the national regulatory scheme has been a challenge for the continuation of investments in exploration activities, especially impacting junior mining companies with limited capital and time.

"To execute a reconnaissance drilling program in Peru, it is necessary to have the Environmental Impact Statement, whose approval takes between 18 to 24 months. A similar document is certified in three months in Chile and in two weeks in the U. S.," he compared.

However, he emphasized that mining companies work under strict parameters of environmental protection and respect for the communities, prioritizing adequate communication to obtain authorization, sign economic commitments and generate sustainable development.

Opportunity to share findings and networking

Finally, the advisory member highlighted that proEXPLO 2023 will share the latest advances in mineral exploration projects, encourage new investments in geological potential, and strengthen links between prospectors, explorers and service providers.

He also reminded that the event, organized by the Peruvian Institute of Mining Engineers, will be held under a hybrid modality, i.e., virtual and on-site, from May 8 to 10 at the Lima Convention Center, located in the district of San Borja.

"In its previous edition in 2021, proEXPLO was held only virtually, with the participation of 28 countries and 4,000 people. After PERUMIN, it is the most important mining event in Peru and the largest of its kind in Latin America," said Enrique Garay.

proEXPLO 2023: Descubriendo la Minería del Futuro