Comprehensive Water Management: Key to Modern and Sustainable Mining

Comprehensive water management is a central challenge for the development of modern and sustainable mining in Peru today. This was stated at the discussion “Comprehensive Water Management in the Mining Sector,” held as part of the 16th Symposium of the National Society of Mining, Petroleum, and Energy, organized in alliance with the Peruvian-German Chamber.

The session began with a presentation by Julian Fernandez, general manager of GWE Tubomin, who emphasized that any water management system must ensure compatibility with water resources. He also showcased examples of specialized solutions implemented in Peru and the region, aligned with the highest international standards.

“One of the biggest challenges is to develop technologies and materials that ensure the quality and durability of the system, even in extreme conditions. To innovate is to adapt, always thinking about specific solutions for each mining environment,” stated Fernandez.

As part of the panel, Yvonne Lamparte, superintendent of Environmental Management for Compañía Minera Poderosa, highlighted the progress in real-time monitoring systems based on physicochemical and microbiological parameters, which ensures water quality, reduces health risks, and prevents economic losses due to plant shutdowns.

Next, Pamela Antonioli, general manager of the Peruvian Mining Innovation Hub, emphasized the importance of integrating technologies such as sensors and fiber optics with advanced data analysis. She indicated that, although automatic systems are progressing in the plant, the real advancement will be achieving the transfer of capabilities so that technologies adapt to local needs and conditions.

For his part, Francisco Indacochea, general manager and spokesperson for the German Technology Basket at AHK Peru, emphasized that the key contribution of German technology is the integration of systems for predictive and efficient water management, which are adapted to the challenges of high-altitude mining, considering thermal fluctuations, dust, and electrical storms.

Specialists concluded that transferring capabilities and knowledge to local communities and suppliers is essential for achieving true sustainability.