Concerns have emerged in Chile's Ñuble Region over the possible arrival of hazardous waste containing arsenic at the Fundo Las Cruces landfill in Chillán Viejo.
Congressman Daniel Valenzuela (Independent-RN) says he has received information suggesting preparations may be underway to transport waste from the El Teniente mine, located in the O'Higgins Region, to the landfill in Chillán Viejo.
In response, on October 28, the lawmaker sent official letter No. 27,020 to Codelco's presidency, requesting clarification on whether any tender, contract or administrative process exists concerning the transportation or disposal of arsenic-containing waste at the site.
According to former Chillán Viejo mayor Felipe Aylwin, based on information reported by media outlets and sources, the proposal could involve bringing more than 2,100 tons of hazardous waste to the facility.
Request for Details on Waste Composition and Transportation
The parliamentary request asks Codelco to provide detailed information if the operation is confirmed, including arsenic concentrations, health and safety classification, hazardous properties, physical state and total waste volumes.
It also requests details about transportation routes, shipment frequency, safety measures, traceability systems and contingency plans in the event of an incident.
Valenzuela has emphasized that his request seeks official information. He has not presented the proposed transfer as confirmed or suggested that any regulatory violations have occurred.
Environmental Concerns Surrounding Fundo Las Cruces
The concerns are also linked to the landfill's environmental record.
Fundo Las Cruces is currently facing charges filed by Chile's Environmental Superintendency (SMA), related to project modifications carried out without prior environmental assessment and deficiencies in groundwater monitoring.
Additionally, a 2015 study conducted by the Chilean Medical Association and the University of Chile identified higher-than-expected levels of arsenic, lead and manganese in nearby sediments.
These findings have renewed questions about the landfill's environmental conditions and monitoring systems.
Codelco's Official Response Is Still Pending
Codelco's Communications Department indicated that it would issue a statement regarding the situation. However, no statement had been received at the time of the information provided.
Sources within the state-owned company indicate that Codelco uses its own disposal facilities or certified companies to manage its waste.
Meanwhile, in response to a transparency request submitted by the local committee, the company stated that it is not subject to the passive transparency mechanism.
The Ñuble Regional Environmental Secretariat has also consulted the Superintendency of Health regarding the information surrounding the case.
Local Organizations Express Concern
Manuel Palacios, president of the local committee, questioned the lack of clarity surrounding the potential operation. He stated that Codelco had not denied the possibility of a tender, leaving the organization with serious doubts and concerns.
According to the information presented, if the transfer goes ahead, the Chillán Viejo landfill could receive the waste over a five-year period.
For now, the main question remains unanswered: Is there an actual plan to transport arsenic-containing waste from El Teniente to Chillán Viejo, and under what environmental and health conditions would such an operation take place?
The local community is awaiting an official response from Codelco and further information from the relevant authorities.
