Codelco, the world’s largest copper producer, has unveiled a bold plan to reduce pollution in its value chain, emphasizing a significant focus on cutting indirect emissions, which currently account for 60% of its total pollution. The Chilean state-owned miner aims to reduce these emissions by 25% by 2030. This move aligns with the growing global demand for traceable copper, which is essential for governments and corporations to meet their sustainability goals and policy objectives.
Copper plays a critical role in electric vehicles (EVs), which rely on the metal for batteries, wiring, motors, and charging infrastructure. As the International Copper Association projects a dramatic increase in EV copper demand—from approximately 204,000 tons in 2017 to 1.9 million tons by 2027—Codelco’s initiative to address its indirect emissions becomes even more crucial. While copper mining is less polluting than extracting fossil fuels, it is still a significant contributor to global pollution, accounting for up to 7% of heat-trapping emissions worldwide.
Codelco’s ambitious strategy not only targets indirect emissions—stemming from activities like waste treatment, disposal, business travel, and distribution—but also aims to reduce its total pollution by 70% within the next five years. This goal stands out in comparison to industry competitors like Antofagasta Minerals, which committed to a more modest 10% reduction during the same period.
As part of its environmental commitment, Codelco plans to implement a fully clean energy matrix, replacing all underground mining equipment with electric alternatives. Additionally, the company will actively explore new clean energy sources, including green hydrogen, to further lower its carbon footprint. These measures complement the company’s broader sustainability efforts, which include reducing inland water use, recycling 65% of nonhazardous waste, and supporting local workers and suppliers to encourage job growth in the region.
By taking these steps, Codelco is positioning itself as a leader in the push toward greener copper production, aligning its operations with the increasing demand for sustainable materials critical to the global transition to clean energy.
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