As the climate crisis deepens, Chile finds itself at a pivotal moment in its mining history. Enjoying a long reign as the world’s top producer of copper, Chile is also the second-largest producer of lithium.
Thus the country is crucial for the global shift to a green energy economy. In 2024, copper stepped out of lithium’s shadow and has taken center stage, achieving historic highs and electrifying excitement into the Chilean mining sector.
Chile’s mining industry has felt the effects of the changing climate, facing severe climate-related challenges including droughts, abnormal rainfall, and cold spells, which have intermittently halted mining operations. Yet, Chilean miners have shown remarkable resilience in overcoming these obstacles, and are setting global precedents using technological and innovative solutions.
Chile’s path forward is built on centuries of mining expertise, and the challenges create a fertile ground for these technological advancements, revitalising a sector that had slowed due to political debates over constitutional and permitting reforms. Now, with favourable global economic conditions, the stage is set for a resurgence.
Chile’s miners, engineers, geologists, chemists, and builders are preparing for this revival. After conducting over 150 interviews with industry leaders, GBR presents a thorough overview of the sector.